In a dramatic policy shift, President Donald Trump has announced a significant escalation in U.S. support for Ukraine, sending more than a dozen Patriot missile batteries to aid in the fight against Russia. This announcement, made in the presence of NATO Secretary General Mark Rut, marks a stark departure from Trump’s earlier promises to resolve the conflict swiftly and positions him closer to the stance of his predecessor, Joe Biden.

Trump’s new approach comes with a stern ultimatum for Russia: negotiate a ceasefire within 50 days, or face severe sanctions, including a potential 100% tariff on Russian energy exports. “I’m disappointed in President Putin,” Trump stated, reflecting a sense of betrayal after months of failed negotiations. The threat of tariffs and military support aims to pressure the Kremlin, but the question looms: will Putin respond to Trump’s tough talk?

As the Russian military continues to gain ground in eastern and southern Ukraine, Trump’s newfound belligerence raises eyebrows. His previous leniency towards Putin, which included downplaying the invasion and praising the Russian leader’s strength, has been replaced with a more confrontational stance. Despite this, analysts remain skeptical about the effectiveness of Trump’s threats, as Russia appears undeterred by sanctions thus far.

The Kremlin’s reaction was swift, with the Moscow stock exchange tumbling 2.5% following Trump’s announcement, hinting at doubts about the durability of his resolve. Trump, who has historically been wary of NATO, has now embraced a collaborative approach with European allies to arm Ukraine, signaling a potential shift in the geopolitical landscape.

As tensions mount, the world watches closely. Will Trump’s ultimatum compel Putin to negotiate, or will the conflict escalate further? The next 50 days could redefine the power dynamics in Europe and beyond.