Trump sends a letter to NATO countries and declares readiness for «serious sanctions» against Russia

What happened

US President Donald Trump has revealed on Truth Social that he has sent a letter to NATO allies calling for stop purchasing Russian oil and Tighten sanctions in a coordinated manner against Russia to speed up the end of the war against Ukraine. This was reported by Ukrinform with reference to The Guardian.

Trump's main proposals

• Joint sanctions against Russia. Trump has said he is ready to impose «serious sanctions» if all NATO countries agree and start doing the same.
• Embargo on Russian oil. Calling on allies to stop imports completely oil from Russia, calling the current purchases «shocking».
• Trade pressure on China. He suggested that NATO as a group should imposed 50-100% duties on China with their cancellation after the war; he argued that this was due to Beijing's influence on Moscow.

Argumentation and rhetoric

In his address, Trump stressed that «this is not his war», but he is «ready to act when you are», addressing his allies. In his words, agreed energy restrictions and additional trade pressure could quickly change Russia's behaviour.

Context.

The day before, Trump had already called on the EU to consider 100% duties against India and China to consolidate pressure on Russia and stated that «patience with Putin is running out», and allowing for new sanctions.

What this means for Ukraine and NATO

• If the proposals are picked up at the level of allies, international sanctions coalition may be strengthened by energy and trade instruments.
• Refusal of Russian oil from individual NATO countries would reduce Russia's resource base and increase the effectiveness of the price ceiling.
• Idea. collective duties against China is beyond NATO's traditional competence and will require coordination with EU institutions and member state governments.

What's next

The official reaction of the capitals of NATO member states and EU institutions to the proposed steps is expected. Key topics of discussion may include agreed energy restrictions, import duty regime and the potential impact on supply chains in Europe.