Trump threatens to tighten financial sanctions on Russia

US President Donald Trump has said he is "strongly considering large-scale sanctions" on Russia, as he faces increasing pressure over his policy toward Moscow.

Trump’s comments came during a White House press conference with his Polish counterpart, Karol Nawrocki. He said that Russian President Vladimir Putin understands the consequences of his continued obstruction of calls for a bilateral meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Trump rejected criticism that he has not followed through on previous threats to tighten sanctions on Russia, noting that Washington last week imposed secondary sanctions on India over its purchases of Russian oil. He added, “And I haven't done phase two yet or phase three.”

Separately, Trump confirmed that the US is open to increasing its troops deployed in Poland, which currently number around 10,000, saying, "We will put more there if they want."

Nawrocki’s visit to Washington on Wednesday marks his first foreign trip since assuming office in August. He emphasized that Poland's future and security are linked to strengthening relations with the US. Discussions between the two sides are expected to cover security, energy, and trade issues.