Trump
By Chris Williams
In a fiery address to the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, 23 September 2025, United States President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Russia over its ongoing war in Ukraine. He declared that the US is ready to slap heavy tariffs on Moscow if President Vladimir Putin does not back down, but with a key condition: European allies must follow suit for the measures to bite. This comes amid stalled peace talks and rising tensions in Europe’s biggest conflict since World War II. Trump’s speech, laced with criticism of global bodies and migration, underscores his “America First” stance while pushing for collective action against Russia.
The president’s words echo his repeated threats of sanctions, yet he has held off, insisting Europe must first cut off Russian oil buys. As South Africa marks Heritage Day, reflecting on its own history of struggle, Trump’s call highlights global divides on handling aggression and the economic fallout felt worldwide, including in Africa where energy prices have soared due to the war.
Trump’s Tariff Threat and Call for Allied Unity
Trump pulled no punches, stating: “In the event that Russia is not ready to make a deal to end the war, then the United States is fully prepared to impose a very strong round of powerful tariffs, which would stop the bloodshed, I believe, very quickly.” He stressed that for these steps to work, “European nations, all of you gathered here, would have to join us in adopting the exact same measures.”
This twist aims to ramp up pressure on Putin, who has held firm despite Western sanctions since the February 2022 invasion. Trump believes unified tariffs could force a quick pullback, potentially reclaiming all lost Ukrainian land. He has long criticised Europe for relying on Russian energy, demanding they halt oil imports before US action.
The speech aligns with Trump’s shift, now saying Ukraine can “fight and WIN” back its borders from what he called a “paper tiger” Russia. This marks a tougher tone, amid reports of US aid fatigue and calls for talks.
Meeting with Zelenskiy and Broader Criticisms
Trump planned a sit-down with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy later that day, likely to hash out support and peace paths. Zelenskiy has pushed for more arms and no territorial giveaways, clashing with Trump’s deal-making style.
Beyond Ukraine, Trump slammed the UN for “empty words” and “tremendous potential” wasted. He hit at migration policies, telling leaders: “You’re destroying your countries.” He also criticised NATO and called climate change a “hoax,” distancing the US from global pacts.
Trump touched on other hotspots, like Gaza and strikes on Iran and Venezuelan boats, blending foreign policy with domestic gripes.
Context of the Ukraine War and Trump’s Stance
The war, now in its fourth year, has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions. Russia holds about 18% of Ukraine, including Crimea annexed in 2014. Sanctions have hurt Moscow, but Putin shows no sign of retreat.
Trump’s threats build on his past warnings, but action has lagged. In office before, he withheld Ukraine aid amid impeachment drama. Now back, he pushes for Europe to shoulder more, amid US debates on aid costs.
Allies like Germany and France have cut Russian energy ties but face economic hits. Trump’s call could strain transatlantic bonds, especially if tariffs spark trade wars.
Global Reactions and Implications
World leaders reacted mixed. Some hailed the tough talk, others worried about escalation. Russia dismissed it as bluster, with Putin aides calling Trump unpredictable.
For South Africa, neutral in the conflict, this could affect BRICS ties with Russia. SA has urged talks, hosting peace summits. Rising oil prices from the war have hit local pockets, tying global events to home.
As UNGA wraps, Trump’s speech sets a bold tone for his term. Whether tariffs come and allies join remains key to ending the bloodshed. For now, it ramps up pressure on Putin, with Zelenskiy’s meet a potential turning point.
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