Putin will stop killing people if energy prices drop enough: Trump
In a recent statement, US President Donald Trump suggested that a significant reduction in energy prices could persuade Russian President Vladimir Putin to cease hostilities in Ukraine. Trump’s comments came as tensions between the two nations continue to escalate over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with the US President earlier setting an August 8 deadline for Putin to end the war or face tougher sanctions.
Speaking at a press conference on August 5, Trump stated that a drop in energy prices of around $10 per barrel could have a profound impact on Putin’s decision-making. “If you get energy down, another $10 a barrel, he’s going to have no choice because his economy stinks,” Trump said.
The US President’s comments were made in response to a question about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has seen Russian forces clash with Ukrainian troops and separatists in eastern Ukraine. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of thousands of people and has led to widespread humanitarian concerns.
Trump’s suggestion that a reduction in energy prices could persuade Putin to cease hostilities is not without precedent. The Russian economy is heavily reliant on energy exports, and a drop in global energy prices could have a significant impact on the country’s economic fortunes.
However, it is worth noting that Putin has shown little willingness to back down in the face of international pressure in the past. The Russian President has repeatedly denied any involvement in the conflict in Ukraine, and has instead blamed Western sanctions for the country’s economic woes.
Despite this, Trump’s comments may be seen as a bid to increase pressure on Putin to end the conflict. The US President has previously imposed sanctions on Russia in response to its actions in Ukraine, and has also provided military aid to Ukraine to help it defend against Russian aggression.
In addition to his comments about energy prices, Trump also set a deadline of August 8 for Putin to end the conflict in Ukraine or face tougher sanctions. The US President has previously threatened to impose sanctions on Russia in response to its actions in Ukraine, and has also called for the international community to take action to hold Russia accountable.
The conflict in Ukraine is just one of several flashpoints between Russia and the West, with tensions also running high over issues such as Russia’s involvement in Syria and its alleged interference in the 2016 US presidential election.
Despite these tensions, Trump has previously sought to improve relations with Russia, and has spoken publicly about his desire to work with Putin to address common interests. However, the US President’s comments about the conflict in Ukraine suggest that he is willing to take a tougher stance if necessary.
In conclusion, Trump’s comments about the conflict in Ukraine and the potential impact of energy prices are just the latest development in a complex and ongoing situation. While the US President’s suggestion that a reduction in energy prices could persuade Putin to cease hostilities is an interesting one, it remains to be seen whether it will have any impact on the Russian President’s decision-making.
Ultimately, the conflict in Ukraine is a complex issue that requires a nuanced and multi-faceted approach. While energy prices may play a role in shaping Putin’s decision-making, it is unlikely to be the sole factor in determining the outcome of the conflict.
