Trump says talks with Putin lead nowhere while imposing new sanctions on Russia

Every time I talk to Vladimir, I develop good conversations and then they don't lead anywhere. They simply do not go anywhere”, President Donald Trump said, following a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte to discuss peace negotiations.

The announcement of sanctions came a day after Trump said a planned meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Budapest would be extended indefinitely.

Earlier Wednesday, Russia launched an intense bombing on Ukraine that killed at least seven people, including children.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the new sanctions were needed because of Putin's <x0-refuge to end this meaningless fight”. He said these oil companies finance “warmaker” of the Kremlin.

“Now is the time to stop the killings and for an immediate ceasefire”, Bessent said in a statement.

Speaking to Rutte at the Oval Office on Wednesday, Trump criticised Putin for not being serious about achieving peace and said he hoped the sanctions would help spur a progress.

I just felt the time had come. We waited long,” said Trump.

He called the sanctions package “extraordinary” and added he hoped they would withdraw quickly if Russia agrees to stop the war.

Rutte also praised the move, saying it was “ustron more pressure” on Putin.

You need to put pressure on him and that's exactly what he did today,” said Rutte. /Periscopi/