Donald Trump has used harsh language towards Russia in his statements. He announced that if an agreement cannot be reached with the Moscow administration, 100% “secondary tariffs” will be imposed on Russia within 50 days.
Trump stated that these tariffs could be implemented without requiring Congressional approval, saying, “Secondary tariffs are very powerful. We can implement them without Senate approval.” He also added that Republican senators are preparing to take strong action on the issue.
Trump said that the United States will undertake the production of weapons for NATO countries and that NATO members will cover the cost of this production:
“We will do the production, they will make the payment.”
Trump stated that the US would provide NATO with billions of dollars’ worth of military equipment and that these weapons would be delivered to Ukraine shortly. He also announced that Patriot missiles would be shipped to Ukraine.
Trump said that Russia had completely destroyed Ukraine’s electrical infrastructure and attacked Putin, saying, “Russia could have been a great country but it deceived the people. This is a great shame.”
Stating that Ukraine is at a disadvantage in terms of equipment in the war, Trump added that more military support will be sent to Ukraine from NATO.
Trump said Ukraine should continue its pursuit of peace and that NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte would guide Ukraine on this issue.
“This is an opportunity for peace,” said Trump, arguing that trade could be effective in resolving wars.
Trump also stated that he frequently met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, but these meetings did not mean anything, adding, “Putin is launching missile attacks again after the meetings.”
Still, Trump said he believed an agreement could be reached with Putin, saying, “Putin must save his country and his economy.”
Trump stated that a strong Europe would also be good for the U.S. He noted that he had held positive discussions with Germany and said he would pursue friendlier trade policies with European countries.
Trump also took aim at Fed Chair Jerome Powell, saying, “Powell doesn’t know what he’s doing. But the tariffs are working, and the economy is strong.”
*This is not investment advice.