A recent Reuters report reveals that U.S. officials do not expect a peace agreement to end the Ukraine war in the near future, as negotiations stall and Washington prepares harsher economic measures against Russia. Despite initial frustrations with Ukraine’s handling of talks, the U.S. now blames Moscow for rejecting its proposed terms. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov stated that while Russia takes U.S. proposals seriously, they remain unacceptable in their current form.

President Trump has amplified tensions, expressing anger at Vladimir Putin and threatening “secondary tariffs” on Russian oil. Meanwhile, a bipartisan group of 50 senators, led by Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), introduced legislation that would impose a staggering 500% tariff on any country importing Russian oil, gas, or uranium if peace talks collapse. The bill also includes additional sanctions, signaling a hardline stance against nations continuing trade with Russia.

Graham and Blumenthal framed the measures as necessary to cripple Russia’s war economy, boasting bipartisan support. However, such aggressive economic warfare risks further prolonging the conflict rather than forcing a resolution. With no peace deal in sight, the U.S. remains committed to arming Ukraine while escalating economic pressure—a strategy that could deepen global divisions and economic instability.