Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump has delivered one of his sternest warnings yet to Russian President Vladimir Putin, declaring that his “patience is running out” over the protracted war in Ukraine. In an interview with Fox News, Trump struck a sharper tone than in previous remarks, hinting at new punitive measures if Moscow does not show progress toward ending the conflict.
For years, Trump has prided himself on maintaining a personal rapport with Putin, often suggesting that his direct diplomacy could restrain Russia’s ambitions. But on Thursday, his comments suggested that goodwill has limits. “I’ve had a good relationship with him,” Trump said of Putin, “but that relationship only goes so far. At some point, you run out of patience.”
Though the president stopped short of announcing immediate action, he outlined potential tools already under discussion within his administration. Chief among them are expanded sanctions targeting Russian banks and the oil sector, measures designed to squeeze the Kremlin’s financial lifelines. Trump also raised the prospect of tariffs on countries continuing to import Russian oil, framing such penalties as a way to push allies and partners into alignment.
India, one of Russia’s biggest buyers of crude, was singled out as an example. Trump highlighted that Washington had already imposed a 50 percent tariff on Indian exports in part because of its energy dealings with Moscow. “If countries think they can keep buying Russian oil without consequence, they are mistaken,” Trump warned, signaling a willingness to extend economic pressure beyond Russia itself.
Europe too was placed in the spotlight. Trump argued that the ongoing war is not solely an American problem but one that should galvanize stronger European leadership. “This is more Europe’s problem than ours,” he said, implying that Washington expects its NATO allies to shoulder more responsibility in countering Moscow’s aggression.
The remarks underscore both Trump’s frustration and the geopolitical complexity of the conflict. By framing his warning not only at Russia but also at countries and regions enabling Moscow’s survival, Trump is broadening the field of accountability. Yet he avoided setting explicit deadlines or red lines, leaving open questions about how close the United States is to a significant policy escalation.
The broader implication is clear: Washington is preparing to harden its stance if Putin shows no sign of compromise. But the path ahead is fraught with risks. Tougher sanctions could strain relations with strategic partners like India, while additional economic warfare might provoke Russian countermeasures.
For now, Trump’s declaration acts as both a diplomatic signal to Moscow and a cautionary message to global capitals: the United States’ tolerance is not infinite, and the next phase could involve sharper economic confrontation.