The Kremlin said it requires more time to formally respond to a new warning from U.S. President Donald Trump, who announced a fresh arms package for Ukraine and threatened severe tariffs on Russia if no peace deal is reached within 50 days.
Trump’s ultimatum included a potential 100% tariff on any country continuing trade with Moscow if the war persists.
Russian officials reacted dismissively, with former president and current Security Council Deputy Chair Dmitry Medvedev calling Trump’s announcement a “theatrical ultimatum” and claiming Russia “didn’t care.”
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said any official reaction would take time, while Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov labeled the threat unacceptable and diplomatically unconstructive.
Meanwhile, regional authorities in Voronezh, Lipetsk, and Bryansk reported overnight drone strikes allegedly launched by Ukraine, injuring at least 18 people.
The attacks represent a continuing pattern of cross-border Ukrainian operations targeting Russia’s infrastructure.
In Europe, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announced that the bloc is close to adopting an 18th sanctions package against Moscow, which may include further restrictions on oil exports and financial channels.
She emphasized growing urgency within the EU to counter Russia’s ongoing aggression, while cautiously acknowledging the potential impact of Trump’s economic threats.
Analysts have warned that while Trump’s ultimatum adds pressure on the Kremlin, its effectiveness may depend on international coordination and whether other global powers, like China or India, align with Washington’s strategy.