Trump urges Europeans to stop buying Russian oil, presses for tougher stance on Moscow and Beijing

U.S. President Donald Trump held a phone call on Thursday with several European leaders, urging them to halt purchases of Russian oil. He argued that this step was part of Washington’s strategy to deprive Moscow of the resources funding its war in Ukraine.

A White House official reported that Trump also stressed the importance of tightening economic pressure on China, citing what he described as its « support for Russia. » He added that the United States expects « greater cooperation and commitment » from its European allies on this matter.

The call also covered Ukraine’s security guarantees, ways to strengthen international support for Kyiv, and mechanisms to increase pressure on Russia to push it toward peace negotiations.

This stance follows Trump’s earlier remarks expressing disappointment with Russian President Vladimir Putin and hinting at the possibility of additional sanctions if Moscow fails to show flexibility on peace terms.

Trump emphasized that his message to Putin was « clear »: « Either we accept the consequences of his decision, or we respond with other steps if we are not satisfied, » signaling Washington’s readiness for further measures if necessary.