John Bolton, the former national security adviser, stated on Monday that President Trump might quickly step back from efforts to address the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
The Trump administration had been collaborating with both Kiev and Moscow to seek peace, while GOP lawmakers are advocating for additional sanctions against Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“He didn’t achieve what he wanted. It was a swift ceasefire from his buddy Vladimir. He spent six months on it—without any results,” Bolton remarked during his appearance on News Nation’s “Balance.”
“Now he’s looking for justifications to act against Putin, but I think it serves as a reason to say, ‘I’m done with that; that’s the war in Europe. That’s what I said from the beginning, and I’ve wrapped it up.'”
On the same day, the president issued a warning about imposing tariffs on Russia if they continue to ignore the ceasefire proposal.
“We are quite unhappy with Russia. Trump will impose strict tariffs if there are no transactions in about 50 days,” he mentioned during a meeting at the Oval Office with NATO executive director Mark Latte.
Bolton suggested that after enduring months of being stalled by Putin regarding the peace talks, pressure is expected to increase.
“I think he thought Putin was a friend—maybe he still thinks that. But even friends can have arguments; they won’t last forever,” Bolton shared with Anchor Leland Vittard.
“What I see happening now is, ‘This is not my war; this is Biden’s war.’ In 50 days, sanctions against Russia might or might not happen.”
Last week, NATO leaders signed an agreement with the Trump administration regarding the purchase of U.S. weapons to be sent to Ukraine to bolster its defense.
Trump also stated on Monday that the system will feature Patriot missile defense batteries aimed at enhancing air surveillance in Ukraine, which would provide advanced warnings of incoming Russian attacks.
“Many former American commanders in Europe believe Ukraine can win this war, and what the U.S. can uniquely do to assist is to provide them with a strategy and the necessary weapon systems,” Bolton explained.
“And yes, I realize it’s been three years since this all began, but the truth is that Putin thinks he’s in a strong position now and feels he’s making progress in Ukraine. He may believe that, but it certainly doesn’t reflect the reality.”
