US President Donald Trump announced that European leaders are set to visit the United States on September 8 or 9. The purpose of these discussions will be to address the Russian-Ukrainian war and strategies for increasing pressure on Russia. Donald Trump also stated his intention to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin within the next couple of days.
Speaking to reporters, Donald Trump repeatedly voiced confidence that the conflict would be resolved. However, he reiterated his profound disappointment with the ongoing war and with Putin.
“I’m not thrilled with what’s happening there. I believe we will resolve it. But I’m not happy with them. I’m unhappy with everything related to this war,” Donald Trump told journalists at Joint Base Andrews.
What Will Be Discussed?
While the exact format of the meeting remains undisclosed, Donald Trump indicated that European leaders would arrive in the U.S. individually. Recent statements from the European Union and leaders of the “coalition of the willing” after the Paris summit suggest that discussions between American and European officials will focus on security guarantees for Ukraine and the implementation of joint sanctions.
Donald Trump’s Sanctions Push Against Russia
On September 7, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed readiness for further sanctions against Russia. “We intend to act firmly with the European Union against countries that continue to purchase Russian oil,” Bessent stated. “We are prepared to increase pressure, but we need the Europeans to follow our lead.”
According to Bessent, allies are currently engaged in “a kind of test: whether Ukrainian forces can hold out longer than the Russian economy. If our European partners follow our example and impose secondary duties, the Russian economy will face collapse, forcing President Putin to the negotiating table.”
NEWSROOM IN notes that despite all assurances from Kremlin head Vladimir Putin about a willingness for peace talks, the Russian army continues its attacks on Ukrainian cities, destroying residential buildings and infrastructure, and killing civilians.
