Trump says Russia, Ukraine could ‘make a fortune’ with US ties

US President Trump said Sunday that Russia and Ukraine could gain access to substantial economic partnerships with the US if they reach a peace agreement this week.

“Hopefully Russia and Ukraine will make a deal this week,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Both will then start to do big business with the United States of America, which is thriving, and make a fortune.”

Trump’s statement followed his threat to withdraw US involvement in the peace process if talks fail to move forward. “You're foolish, you're fools, you're horrible people,” he said of any party obstructing progress.

His remarks came during what was intended to be a ceasefire declared by President Putin for the Easter weekend. Ukrainian officials claimed Russia violated the truce more than 2,000 times. Zelensky proposed a 30-day extension targeting missile and drone strikes, but the Kremlin has not issued a response.

Some European leaders were sceptical of Moscow’s intentions. Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky called the truce a “media stunt” designed to placate Trump. Secretary of State Marco Rubio added that the US may walk away if a deal is not reached soon.

Trump has placed business interests at the core of his foreign policy approach. The White House has promoted “enormous economic deals” with both Moscow and Kyiv, including a minerals agreement giving the US access to Ukrainian natural resources.