Vladimir Putin has broken his silence regarding Donald Trump’s imposition of sanctions on Russia by delivering a stern warning to the US President. Trump enacted sanctions against Russia’s top two oil companies in an effort to push Moscow towards resolving issues with Ukraine. Despite a recent conversation between Trump and Putin that seemed to show warming relations, Trump expressed disappointment at the lack of significant progress.

Putin responded today at the Russian Geographical Society in Moscow, emphasizing the importance of dialogue over conflict. He stated that dialogue is always preferable to confrontation or war, and that Russia has consistently supported continuing discussions.

Following Trump’s remark that his discussions with Putin often stall, Putin cautioned that Russia would strongly retaliate if Ukraine were to deploy Tomahawk missiles, advanced US munitions. Putin warned that Russia’s response would be forceful, if not overwhelming, urging caution.

In response to inquiries about Trump’s shifting stance towards Russia, spokesperson Karoline Leavitt explained that the sanctions were in line with the President’s long-standing commitment. Trump has expressed frustration with Putin and both sides of the conflict, believing that progress towards peace has been stagnant. Leavitt mentioned that while a future meeting between the leaders is possible, there must be a concrete positive outcome and effective use of Trump’s time. Any additional sanctions against Russia would be determined by the President.