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

On July 14, Mr. Trump threatened to impose secondary U.S. 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 continue the fight.

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 army."

“The president’s view is that Russia will win; it’s just a matter of how long it will take,” the White House official told the newspaper, 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 Mr Trump's latest ultimatum and condemned the pressure efforts. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov asserted that this approach is "unacceptable" and demanded that Washington and NATO respect Russia's interests and concerns.

Moscow has repeatedly stressed that it is ready for respectful talks aimed at resolving the Ukraine conflict diplomatically. However, Russian officials have also said they have seen no real effort 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.