Trump says Russia has overcome Western sanctions, but new ones possible

U.S. President Donald Trump has acknowledged that Russia has successfully overcome the impact of Western sanctions, though he noted that the Kremlin remains aware of the possibility of further punitive measures.

Trump described Russian President Vladimir Putin as a professional and confirmed that sanctions were a topic of discussion during their most recent phone call, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump remarked that the Russian leader understands the potential for new sanctions to be imposed. The U.S. President also admitted that Putin has managed to cope with the sanctions already in place.

Trump also said that he was left disappointed after a phone call with Putin, noting that the Russian leader does not appear willing to end the war in Ukraine.

"I'm very disappointed with the conversation I had today with President Putin, because I don't think he's there, and I'm very disappointed."

He added: "I'm just saying I don't think he's looking to stop, and that's too bad."

Efforts by the U.S. to broker a diplomatic resolution to the conflict have largely stalled. Trump has faced increasing calls — including from within his own Republican Party — to exert more pressure on Putin to engage seriously in peace negotiations.

By Aghakazim Guliyev