Trump Warns in 2025: Russia’s Economy “Stinks” as Low Oil Prices Threaten Putin’s War Machine

• Why Is Trump Targeting Russia’s Oil Revenue?
• How Has the Kremlin Responded to Trump’s Threats?
• What Are Trump’s Latest Moves Against Russia?
• Is Russia’s Economy Really in Trouble?
• What’s Next in This Geopolitical Standoff?
• FAQs

Former U.S. President Donald TRUMP has escalated his rhetoric against Russia, claiming its economy "stinks" and that falling oil prices could cripple Vladimir Putin’s war efforts in Ukraine. Trump’s comments, made during a live interview, were met with defiance from Kremlin officials, who dismissed his threats of tariffs and military posturing. Meanwhile, Russia’s economy shows signs of strain, with declining oil revenues and rising inflation, though the Kremlin remains outwardly unshaken. This article breaks down the financial and geopolitical tensions, offering insights into how energy markets and trade wars are shaping the conflict.

Why Is Trump Targeting Russia’s Oil Revenue?

Trump didn’t mince words in his recent interview: “Putin will stop killing people if you get energy down another $10 a barrel. He’s going to have no choice because his economy stinks.” His argument hinges on the idea that Russia’s war in Ukraine is bankrolled by oil and gas exports. If prices drop further, Putin’s ability to fund the war could collapse. This isn’t just speculation—Russia’s finance ministry has already slashed its oil revenue forecast for 2025, expecting a 24% drop from earlier estimates. Brent crude recently fell to $67.92, and West Texas Intermediate dipped to $65.41, adding pressure on Moscow.

How Has the Kremlin Responded to Trump’s Threats?

Putin hasn’t personally acknowledged Trump’s remarks, leaving responses to Dmitry Medvedev, his former president and close ally. Medvedev fired back on X, calling Trump’s demands “dangerous” and accusing him of pushing the U.S. toward internal conflict. Meanwhile, Kremlin press secretary Dmitry Peskov dismissed Trump’s tariff threats as mere coercion, defending India’s right to trade with Russia. The lack of direct engagement from Putin suggests Moscow sees Trump as a provocateur rather than a negotiator.

What Are Trump’s Latest Moves Against Russia?

Trump has taken a hardline approach, shortening a proposed 50-day Ukraine peace deadline to just two weeks. If Putin refuses, Trump plans to impose secondary tariffs on nations still trading with Russia—a move he claims will force countries to “pick a side.” He’s also ordered two U.S. nuclear submarines into “appropriate regions,” likely NEAR Russian waters. Additionally, Trump has criticized India for reselling discounted Russian oil, threatening to hike tariffs on Indian goods. “They’re fueling the war machine,” he said, signaling a broader economic squeeze.

Is Russia’s Economy Really in Trouble?

While Trump insists Russia’s economy “stinks,” the reality is more nuanced. Sanctions have slowed growth, with the IMF revising Russia’s 2025 GDP forecast down to 0.9%. Inflation hovers around 10% (possibly higher), and food costs are soaring. Yet, trade with China and India continues, providing a lifeline. The Kremlin hasn’t panicked, but the cracks are visible: oil revenue is down, the budget deficit is widening, and industrial output is weakening. Whether this translates to Putin backing down, however, remains uncertain.

What’s Next in This Geopolitical Standoff?

Trump’s strategy relies on economic pressure, but Putin has weathered worse. The bigger question is whether falling oil prices and tariffs will force Moscow’s hand—or if the war will grind on regardless. For now, both sides are digging in, with Trump waiting for a reaction that may never come. One thing’s clear: the energy market is now a battlefield, and every dollar drop in oil prices is another blow to Russia’s war chest.

FAQs

What did Trump say about Russia’s economy?

Trump claimed Russia’s economy “stinks” and argued that lowering oil prices by $10 per barrel WOULD force Putin to end the war in Ukraine due to financial strain.

How has the Kremlin responded to Trump’s comments?

Putin has ignored Trump directly, but Dmitry Medvedev, his close ally, called the remarks “dangerous” and accused Trump of escalating tensions.

What actions has Trump taken against Russia?

Trump has threatened tariffs on countries trading with Russia, deployed nuclear submarines near Russian waters, and criticized India for buying Russian oil.

Is Russia’s economy collapsing?

While sanctions and low oil prices are hurting growth, Russia’s economy isn’t collapsing. Trade with China and India is helping offset some losses, but inflation and budget deficits are rising.