Trump claims he has leverage over Russia

He made this statement in response to journalists' questions during a meeting with NATO Secretary General at the White House on Thursday, as reported by a Ukrinform correspondent.

"I do have leverage, but I don’t want to talk about leverage now because right now we are talking with him (Putin – ed.), and based on the statements he made today, they were very positive, I think," Trump said.

He once again expressed hope that Russia would reach an agreement and stop the fire.

"I hope Russia’s going to make a deal too, and once the deal happens, I don’t think they’ll go to shooting again," Trump said regarding the prospects for a peaceful resolution.

As reported by Ukrinform, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed on Thursday that the current administration in Washington is "ready to impose the highest level" of sanctions against Russia "without hesitation" if necessary.

Photo: Office of the President