Kremlin Takes Trump Sanctions Threat Seriously

JAKARTA - The Kremlin said the latest US President Donald Trump's statement, including the threat of sanctions against Russian export buyers, was serious and needed to be analyzed.

In a major policy change that underscores its growing frustration against President Vladimir Putin, Trump on Monday announced a new shipment of weapons to Ukraine and warned Russian export buyers could face sanctions unless Russia agreed to a peace deal related to Ukraine.

Trump, who said he wanted to be remembered as a peaceful carrier, then told the BBC, referring to Putin: "I am disappointed with him, but I am not done with him yet. But I am disappointed with him."

Asked about Trump's recent statement, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "The US president's statement is very serious. Some of them are personally addressed to President Putin."

"We certainly need time to analyze what is said in Washington and if and when President Putin deems it necessary, he will definitely comment," he continued.

Peskov continued, apparently referring to news of a new arms shipment to Kyiv: "Decisions made in Washington, in NATO countries, and in particular in Brussels, are seen by Ukraine as not a signal of peace, but as a signal to continue the war."

He reiterated that Russia is ready to resume direct negotiations with Ukraine and is still waiting for a signal from Kyiv regarding when the next talks can be held.