Trump Says He’s ‘Pissed Off’ At Putin, Threatens To Bomb Iran And Impose More Tariffs

President Donald Trump escalated his rhetoric against Russia on Sunday, warning that he will slap tariffs on Russian oil imports if the Kremlin fails to secure a ceasefire in its ongoing war with Ukraine. In an interview with NBC’s Meet the Press, Trump expressed mounting frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking a sharp departure from his previously warmer tone toward the Kremlin leader.

Speaking to host Kristen Welker, Trump outlined plans to impose tariffs of at least 25% on “all oil coming out of Russia” should Moscow refuse to negotiate an end to the conflict, which has now dragged into its third year. “If Russia and I are unable to make a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I think it was Russia’s fault—which it might not be—I’ll impose the tariffs,” Trump said. He added that the measures could take effect within a month of a ceasefire deadline and might extend beyond oil to other Russian products.

The president’s ire was sparked by Putin’s remarks on Friday, when the Russian leader suggested that the U.S. and its Western allies should back a “transitional administration” in Ukraine to replace President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Trump called the comments misguided, telling NBC, “Putin’s not going in the right direction,” especially while ceasefire talks remain underway. “If there’s a new government in Ukraine, you’re not gonna have a deal for a long time,” he warned.

Trump admitted to being “very angry, pissed off” with Putin, a shift that contrasts with past praise where he once hailed the Russian leader as a “genius.” Despite the tension, Trump maintained he retains “a very good relationship” with Putin, though aides have reportedly signaled Washington’s displeasure to Moscow.

The proposed tariffs could disrupt global energy markets, targeting not just Russia but nations like China and India, which have ramped up purchases of discounted Russian crude. Critics, however, question their impact, given U.S. imports of Russian oil have already dwindled under existing sanctions. For now, Trump’s tougher stance signals a bid to pressure Russia as negotiations falter.