Trump Threatens Sanctions on Russia, Urges Peace After Ukraine Energy Hits

President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Russia, threatening "large scale" sanctions after a devastating attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. On Truth Social, Trump declared he was "strongly considering" sanctions and tariffs until a ceasefire and a final peace agreement are reached. His message wasn't exactly subtle: get to the table or face the consequences.

National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett, speaking to reporters, hinted that the U.S. was ready to wield both "carrots and sticks" to push Russia and Ukraine toward peace talks. When pressed for details on what might be sanctioned, Hassett chuckled and replied, "a heck of a lot of things." Cryptic much?

The overnight attacks were brutal. Russia reportedly launched 67 missiles and 194 drones, targeting Ukraine's energy and gas infrastructure, according to Ukraine’s air force. At least 10 people, including a child, were injured in the assault. Ukrainian Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko didn't mince words, calling it "energy terror" in a Facebook post. This isn't Russia's first rodeo with Ukraine's energy grid either—it's been a recurring strategy throughout the three-year conflict, with major strikes in April and December of last year.

Trump's post also included a direct plea to both countries: "Get to the table right now, before it is too late." A clear sense of urgency there, even if the tone feels a bit like a parent scolding bickering children.

The attacks coincided with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirming that his team will participate in U.S.-led peace talks in Saudi Arabia next week. While Zelenskyy himself won't attend, his delegation will sit down with American counterparts to discuss pathways to ending the war. Zelenskyy has publicly reiterated his country's interest in peace, but let’s not forget the recent Oval Office drama. Trump criticized Zelenskyy as "not ready for peace" after a reportedly heated meeting, going so far as to say Zelenskyy "disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office." Ouch.

Despite the tension, the two leaders seem to have patched things up. During a recent address to Congress, Trump read a letter from Zelenskyy and expressed his appreciation for the gesture, emphasizing his desire to see the "savage conflict" come to an end. It’s a diplomatic dance, but whether it leads to peace or just more posturing remains to be seen.