Trump Shifts Stance on Ukraine War, Signals Pivot to Russia Trade Deals

Washington, May 22, 2025 – In a striking policy reversal, President Donald Trump has distanced himself from European efforts to impose new sanctions on Russia over the ongoing war in Ukraine, instead expressing enthusiasm for pursuing business opportunities with Moscow. Following a Monday phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump informed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders that Russia and Ukraine must resolve the conflict independently, a departure from his earlier promise to broker a swift peace deal.

This shift, which has raised concerns about a fracture within NATO, comes as European allies push forward with sanctions despite U.S. reluctance, highlighting a growing transatlantic divide. Trump’s focus on economic ties with Russia has sparked debate about America’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s fight against Russian aggression.

Trump’s Reversal on Ukraine and Sanctions

During his campaign, Trump boasted he could end the Russia-Ukraine war within 24 hours, a claim he later admitted was sarcastic. However, after his recent conversation with Putin, Trump has signaled a retreat from diplomatic efforts, urging Ukraine and Russia to negotiate directly without U.S. mediation. This stance contrasts with his earlier threats to join European leaders in imposing sanctions if Russia failed to agree to a 30-day unconditional ceasefire, as noted in a May 8 Truth Social post.

According to recent reports, six officials familiar with the discussions confirmed Trump’s decision to step back, citing his desire to prioritize economic opportunities over further sanctions. This pivot has alarmed European allies, who are moving ahead with new penalties, including Britain’s latest sanctions targeting Russia’s military and energy sectors, announced on Tuesday.

NATO Tensions and European Response

Trump’s reluctance to align with Europe’s sanctions strategy has deepened divisions within NATO, fulfilling a long-standing goal of Putin to weaken the alliance. European leaders, including British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, have called for a “just and lasting peace” in Ukraine, with the EU preparing its 17th sanctions package.

Meanwhile, Trump’s administration, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, emphasizes that existing sanctions from 2022 remain intact, alongside ongoing U.S. weapons support for Ukraine. However, Trump’s public comments suggest a shift toward normalizing relations with Russia, with a focus on trade in energy and rare earth minerals. Recent market data indicates Russia’s energy exports, despite sanctions, still account for 10% of global oil supply, underscoring the economic allure for Trump.

Did You Know?
The Russia-Ukraine war, sparked by Russia’s 2022 invasion, has displaced over 6 million Ukrainians, making it one of the largest refugee crises in Europe since World War II.

Ukraine’s Struggle and U.S. Policy Shift

The war, now in its third year, has left Ukraine grappling with devastating Russian drone strikes, with over 1,200 civilian deaths reported in 2025 alone, according to international monitors. Trump’s earlier meeting with Zelensky in February was marked by tension, with the U.S. president blaming Ukraine for Russia’s invasion.

The resignation of U.S. Ambassador Bridget A. Brink last month, who criticized the administration’s pressure on Ukraine, further highlighted the policy shift. Trump’s defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, has also stated that Ukraine’s NATO membership and territorial recovery are off the table, aligning with Putin’s demands but failing to secure a ceasefire. This has left Ukraine increasingly reliant on European support as U.S. engagement wanes.

Trump’s Economic Vision and Putin’s Strategy

Trump’s pivot toward trade with Russia reflects his broader economic agenda, with advisors noting his interest in tapping Russia’s vast energy and mineral resources. In his Monday post, Trump described Russia’s economic potential as “unlimited,” envisioning large-scale trade deals post-conflict. Putin, aware of Trump’s priorities, has steered discussions toward economic cooperation, according to sources familiar with their calls.

This approach risks undermining Ukraine’s position, as Russia continues limited negotiations in Istanbul while intensifying military actions. The looming expiration of the New START nuclear treaty in February 2026 adds further complexity, with no replacement talks underway, raising concerns about global security.