US President believes Moscow can win military victory over Kiev thanks to 'bigger economy' and 'bigger military'

On July 14, Mr Trump threatened to impose secondary US tariffs of up to 100% on Russia’s trading partners unless progress was made toward a peace deal within 50 days. He also authorized new arms deliveries to Ukraine, which would be paid for by European NATO members. Moscow has warned that Mr Trump’s statement could be interpreted by Kiev as a signal to resume the war.

According to Politico, Mr. Trump decided to increase pressure on Moscow because of frustration with Russia's continued attacks on Ukraine. The source noted that the US President believes that Moscow can win a military victory over Kiev thanks to its "bigger economy" and "bigger military."

“The president’s view is that Russia will win; it’s just a matter of how long it takes,” the White House official told the paper, noting Moscow’s advances on the battlefield.

In recent months, Russian forces have continued to gain more territory, fully liberating the self-proclaimed Lugansk People's Republic, as well as the Kursk Region, which was attacked by Ukrainian forces last year.

For its part, Moscow has rejected Trump's latest ultimatum and condemned the pressure efforts. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said the approach was "unacceptable" and demanded that Washington and NATO respect Russia's interests and concerns.

Moscow has repeatedly stressed that it is ready for negotiations based on mutual respect to resolve the conflict in Ukraine through diplomatic means. However, Russian officials have also said they have seen no real efforts from Kiev or the West to pursue peace and have repeatedly criticized calls by Western officials to inflict a “strategic defeat” on Russia.

Russia stressed that it remains determined to achieve the goals of its military operation in Ukraine and, while preferring a diplomatic solution, it is ready to use military means if necessary.