Russia seems unfazed by Trump's ultimatum on ending Ukraine war

Commentators question if Trump is really committed to supporting Kyiv

- Paul Sonne

Russia appears unrattled by US President Donald Trump's new ultimatum aimed at ending the war in Ukraine, retreating to a long-held position that it will weather any sanctions and continue pursuing its war goals in Ukraine regardless of outside pressure.

Russian commentators have also questioned whether Mr. Trump has really reversed course and is fully committed to supporting Ukraine.

Mr. Trump has issued a 50-day ultimatum for Moscow to come to a peace deal, before implementing penalties drafted by the US Congress on Russia and its trading partners. He also agreed to supply weapons to Ukraine, to be paid for by Europe.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov called Mr. Trump's remarks "very serious" on July 15 and something that would concern Russian President Vladimir Putin. But he said Moscow would need time to analyze the position.

On July 16, Mr. Peskov said he hoped the United States was still pressuring Ukraine to continue peace talks. Ukraine and many Western analysts say Russia has sought to string Mr. Trump along by holding talks without a real readiness to make a deal.

"Many statements have been made," Mr. Peskov said. "Many words about disappointment." Ukraine, he added, was reading Washington's support "as a signal to continue the war."