In a significant move highlighting growing tensions, US President Donald Trump has publicly amplified pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin. On Wednesday local time, Trump shared a sharply worded editorial that calls for Washington to abandon concessions and adopt a much tougher line against Moscow.
Editorial Calls for "Bigger Stick" Against Russia
The editorial, titled Putin ‘attack’ bluster shows Russia is the one standing in the way of peace and published in the New York Post, argues that Russia is actively "opposing Trump’s agenda" across the globe. It explicitly urges the US administration to avoid giving Moscow "more concessions" and instead opt for a "bigger stick" approach.
"The answer should not be more concessions, but a bigger stick. Kyiv has done its part. The onus should be on Putin to step up or face more stringent sanctions and more deadly weapons in Ukraine," the editorial stated. It further dismissed Putin's defiance, claiming his actions point to a deteriorating internal situation marked by a stagnating economy and failing propaganda.
Contrasting Signals Amid Escalating Hostilities
This public pressure comes amid mounting frustration over stalled peace efforts in Ukraine. The editorial contrasts Trump's initially upbeat assessment following his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy with the setback that occurred after a Monday phone call with Putin. During that call, the Russian leader reportedly said Moscow would harden its stance in talks, citing an alleged Ukrainian drone attack on one of his residences.
The situation on the ground has turned increasingly violent. Russian authorities on Thursday accused Ukraine of a drone attack on a Russian-held village in Ukraine's Kherson region during New Year celebrations. The attack reportedly left 24 people dead and at least 50 injured, underscoring a sharp escalation in hostilities even as diplomats speak of progress.
Meanwhile, President Zelenskyy countered, stating that Russia has carried its war into the New Year by launching more than 200 attack drones at Ukraine, primarily targeting the country's critical energy facilities. "Russia deliberately brings war into the New Year," he declared.
Mounting Pressure and the Path Forward
The shared editorial represents a clear attempt to steer US policy towards a more confrontational stance. By highlighting Russia's alleged global opposition to Trump's agenda and pointing to internal Russian weaknesses, the piece builds a case for increased pressure rather than diplomacy.
The stark contrast between diplomatic conversations and the brutal reality of ongoing drone warfare presents a complex challenge for international peace efforts. With casualties rising and accusations flying from both sides, the call for a "bigger stick" signals a potential pivot in strategy as the conflict shows no signs of abating.
