NextFin news, Former U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday issued a letter to leaders of all NATO member countries, urging them to cease purchasing oil from Russia before the United States imposes sanctions on Moscow. The letter, posted on Trump's Truth Social platform, emphasized that NATO's efforts to end the war in Ukraine have been insufficient without a unified halt on Russian oil imports.
Trump stated, "I am ready to do major sanctions on Russia when all NATO Nations have agreed, and started, to do the same thing, and when all NATO Nations STOP BUYING OIL FROM RUSSIA." He added that the ongoing purchase of Russian oil by some NATO members weakens their negotiating position and prolongs the conflict.
The letter specifically called out Turkey, Hungary, and Slovakia as NATO members still buying Russian oil, with Turkey being the third largest buyer globally after China and India, according to the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air. Trump asserted that if NATO members comply, the war in Ukraine would end quickly, saving lives and resources.
In addition to the sanctions threat on Russia, Trump proposed imposing tariffs ranging from 50% to 100% on China, linking this to NATO's collective action against Russian oil purchases. He framed these measures as necessary to pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin into negotiations to end the conflict.
Trump's letter came amid ongoing diplomatic discussions in Europe focused on increasing financial sanctions and reducing Russian energy exports. European leaders have recently expressed optimism about convincing Trump that pressuring Putin is essential for peace talks. However, some NATO members continue to rely heavily on Russian oil and gas, complicating unified action.
The letter was sent and made public on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from the United States, addressing NATO countries primarily in Europe and North America. Trump's call for coordinated sanctions reflects ongoing international efforts to influence the course of the war in Ukraine through economic means.
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