U.S. President Donald Trump has called on NATO allies to halt the purchase of Russian oil and impose steep tariffs ranging between 50% and 100% on imports from China, saying such coordinated action would force an early end to the ongoing war in Ukraine.

In a strongly worded message addressed to NATO members, Trump insisted that the alliance’s current approach lacks seriousness as some nations continue to buy Russian oil, a move he described as “shocking” and damaging to collective bargaining power. He stressed that unless NATO acts in unison, American resources would continue to be wasted.

“If NATO does as I say, the war will end quickly, and all of those lives will be saved. If not, you are just wasting my time, and the time, energy, and money of the United States,” Trump said.

Key Proposals & Statements

• Trump said he is ready to impose major sanctions on Russia, but only if all NATO allies agree and begin implementing a coordinated effort that includes ceasing purchases of Russian oil.

• He labelled ongoing oil imports by some NATO members as “shocking” and said that such purchases weaken the alliance’s negotiating and bargaining position with Russia.

• Regarding China, Trump proposed very high tariffs (50-100%) to be applied for the duration of the war, with a view to reducing Beijing’s economic influence over Moscow and “breaking the grip” he claims China has over Russia. These tariffs are to be lifted once the war ends.

• He also emphasized that unless NATO acts in unison, U.S. resources—time, energy, and money—could be wasted. “If NATO does as I say, the war will end quickly, and all of those lives will be saved! If not, you are just wasting my time, and the time, energy, and money of the United States.”

The president’s plan outlines two critical measures: an immediate stop to Russian oil imports by NATO countries and the imposition of high tariffs on China until the war concludes. Trump argued that these steps would not only cut off Moscow’s vital revenue streams but also weaken the influence of Beijing, which he claims indirectly supports Russia’s war strategy.

His remarks come at a time when NATO members remain divided on energy imports from Russia. While most European countries have reduced their dependence, some—including Hungary, Turkey, and Slovakia—still maintain significant purchases, citing economic necessity. Trump said such practices undermine alliance unity and prolong the conflict.

Analysts note that implementing Trump’s proposals would be challenging. A complete ban on Russian oil could lead to spikes in global energy prices, while tariffs on China might disrupt international supply chains and trigger retaliatory trade measures. Nevertheless, Trump maintains that without such drastic steps, the war in Ukraine could drag on indefinitely.

The proposal also highlights Trump’s broader approach to foreign policy, rooted in economic leverage rather than direct military engagement. Whether NATO leaders adopt his suggestions remains uncertain, but the call has reignited debate on the role of sanctions and economic coercion in modern warfare.