In a recent phone call with European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, former President Donald Trump reportedly urged the Europeans to halt their oil imports from Russia. According to a White House source speaking to Reuters, Trump also called on European nations to impose sanctions on China, accusing Beijing of enabling Russia’s military activities in Ukraine.
The discussions took place amid ongoing international efforts to pressure Russia through economic measures, particularly in response to its actions in Ukraine. Trump’s comments align with his longstanding stance on the need for stricter sanctions against Russia; however, his call for additional sanctions on China marks a notable escalation, emphasizing concerns over China’s role in supporting Russia’s war efforts.
European representatives and Zelensky did not publicly comment on the details of the phone call. The Biden administration has previously supported coordinated sanctions against Russia and has expressed concern over China’s foreign policy toward Russia. The implications of these remarks could influence future diplomatic negotiations and sanction policies as the conflict in Ukraine continues.