Bromance over? Trump's ‘very angry, very pissed’ at Putin, threatens secondary tariffs on Russian oil
US President Donald Trump disclosed in his recent interview with NBC News that he was “very angry” and “pissed off” at Russian President Putin.
US President Donald Trump disclosed in his recent interview with NBC News that he was “very angry” and “pissed off” at Russian President Vladimir Putin for questioning the legitimacy of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's administration.

In an early-morning phone call interview on Sunday, Trump acknowledged that Putin is aware of his anger, but also noted that they have “a very good relationship” and that “the anger dissipates quickly... if he does the right thing.”
Putin on Friday called for the installation of a transitional administration in Ukraine, which may essentially force Zelenskyy out, reported AFP.
Trump threatens secondary tariffs on Russian oil
The US President also revealed that he is planning to speak with Putin this week. He, however, warned that he may put secondary tariffs on Russian oil.
“If Russia and I are unable to come to an agreement on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I think it was Russia's fault — which it might not be — but if I think it was Russia's fault, I am going to put secondary tariffs on oil, on all oil coming out of Russia.”
Trump went on to say that it would become difficult to do business in the US is prohibited for those who purchase oil from Russia. He stated that the oil will be subjected to a 25% tariff, which is equivalent to a 25–50 point tariff.
Trump's surprising remarks came after he recently called Zelensky a tyrant, adding that he was “sick” of the way he handled the ongoing war.
Trump and Putin held phone call on March 18
Earlier this month, the White House confirmed about a lengthy phone call between Trump and Putin, which resulted in “movement to peace” about Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
During his election campaign, Trump vowed to resolve the war in Ukraine, calling it his first foreign policy priority. Last week, Russia and Ukraine last week agreed for a partial truce that would provide safe passage in the Black Sea and prevent attacks on one another's energy infrastructure.
ABOUT THE AUTHORShweta KukretiShweta Kukreti has over 8 years of experience in covering Indian and world politics. She joined the Hindustan Times in 2024 and is primarily assigned to the US desk. She currently works as Deputy Chief Content Producer and reports on a wide range of topics, including US politics, immigration issues (especially H-1B visa) and major global events. Shweta strongly emphasizes team operations, which encompasses monitoring news, delegating tasks, editing, developing comprehensive coverage strategies, and crafting engaging, and data-informed narratives. She received the Digi Star Award at the Hindustan Times within a year of joining for her broad coverage of US politics. In 2025, she earned both a promotion and a redesignation, a significant achievement recognising her contributions and the strong value she brings to the team. She has previously worked with the Indian Express, HTDS, ANI and Republic World. Seniors in all the media organisations recognised her work. Regarding education, she earned a BA (Hons.) in Political Science and a master's degree from Delhi University, and she pursued a PG Diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Institution of Mass Communication (IIMC). She also holds a diploma in Women's Empowerment and Development from IGNOU University and a French certification course from Alliance Française de Delhi. If not working, you can find her exploring the hills and engaging in adventurous activities in Rishikesh and Himachal Pradesh. She loves to play badminton, volleyball, and chess, and spend time with her friends and family. She also enjoys spiritual activities.Read More

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