Trump tightens the deadline: 10 days for Putin to act

Tensions rise between Washington and Moscow. Kyiv thanks Trump, while Russia warns: “Risk of direct confrontation”

Tensions between the United States and Russia are escalating. In a surprise diplomatic move, Donald Trump has drastically shortened the ultimatum previously issued to Moscow to reach a peace deal with Kyiv—from 50 days to just 10–12. A bold step that could mark a turning point in the deadlock surrounding the war in Ukraine.

“I’m deeply disappointed with Vladimir Putin,” the U.S. President stated, adding that he no longer wishes to speak directly with the Russian leader. Trump’s sharp stance sets the stage for the possible imposition of secondary sanctions targeting Russia and its allies if no progress is made toward a peace agreement.

Kyiv responded swiftly. Ukrainian presidential adviser Andriy Yermak thanked Trump on social media: “Thank you for standing firm and sending a clear message of peace through strength. When America leads with resolve, others think twice.”

Meanwhile, Moscow fired back with a harsh warning. Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, now deputy head of the Security Council, raised the specter of a direct confrontation between the U.S. and Russia. “Russia is neither Israel nor Iran. Every new ultimatum from Trump is a threat—a step toward war, not with Ukraine, but with America itself,” Medvedev posted on X. He ended with a jab at former U.S. President Joe Biden, sarcastically urging Trump not to follow in the footsteps of “Sleepy Joe.”

The international community is watching with growing concern: the countdown has begun.