Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump emphasized that the decision now rests with Putin, after Ukraine agreed to the U.S.-brokered ceasefire proposal on Tuesday. “We’ll have to wait and see. It’s up to Russia now,” he told reporters when asked about potential direct talks with the Russian leader. He also revealed that U.S. representatives were en route to Russia “as we speak.”

Economic Consequences Loom

Trump declined to confirm whether a meeting with Putin was already scheduled but made it clear that the U.S. is prepared to take serious action if Moscow refuses to halt the fighting. When asked what measures he could take to pressure Russia, Trump remained vague but hinted at severe economic consequences.

“There are things we can do that would not be pleasant. Economically, I can take actions that would be very bad for Russia. I don’t want to do that because I want peace,” he said, adding that the potential measures could be “devastating” for Moscow.

Trump also expressed hope that Putin would agree to the ceasefire, underscoring the urgency of de-escalating the conflict.