WSJ: Trump reaches breaking point with Putin but holds back on sanctions

US President Donald Trump has reportedly reached a breaking point in his dealings with Russian leader Vladimir Putin but chose not to impose the toughest sanctions, as he still hopes to reach a deal with Moscow.

Trump’s patience finally ran out after concluding that Putin was stalling for time, The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reports, citing administration officials.

Just hours after Trump cancelled a planned summit with Putin in Budapest, Russia launched new strikes on Ukraine, hitting several buildings, including a kindergarten.

“Trump didn’t comment directly on the strikes but has been angered by such aggressions, even at times in which he has felt he has made progress with Putin,” the officials said.

The American president believes the Gaza cease-fire he helped broker has created momentum toward ending the war in Ukraine, but Putin’s stubbornness continues to stand in the way.

“Every time I speak with Vladimir, I have good conversations and then they don’t go anywhere,” Trump said on Wednesday, October 22.

US sanctions targeting Russia’s oil industry had been prepared for months, awaiting Trump’s decision.

He was offered three options: a severe plan hitting Russian industry and top leaders, a moderate plan focused on the energy sector, and a lighter plan with limited restrictions. Trump chose the middle course.

A senior White House official said Trump remains committed to ending the war and continues to seek a peaceful resolution. The new sanctions, directed at energy giants Lukoil and Rosneft, mark his latest effort to pressure Moscow and strengthen his image as a global peacemaker.

Throughout his campaign, Trump pledged to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict “on day one,” but despite months of attempts to push Moscow toward serious negotiations, peace has remained elusive.

At times, his efforts to urge concessions from President Zelenskyy have led to both public and private disputes.

By Jeyhun Aghazada