Trump's threat against Russia runs parallel to a Senate-led effort to pass crippling sanctions on countries that buy Russian energy.

Donald Trump has threatened Russia with “very severe tariffs​” should it fail to reach a cease-fire deal with Ukraine within 50 days, signaling a hardened U.S. stance as the war enters a volatile new phase.

The legislation, which would allow the president to levy a 500% tariff on imports from countries that purchase Russian uranium, gas and oil, has gained momentum in the Senate as Trump has signaled he will escalate US action against Russia.

Trump, meanwhile, said he was open to further discussions with the EU and other trading partners before new 30% tariffs kick in next month and that EU officials would be coming to the United States for negotiations.

STORY: The European Union said on Sunday it is continuing to push for a trade deal with the United States after President Donald Trump said on Saturday he would be imposing a 30% tariff on most imports from the EU starting August 1.

President Donald Trump on Monday said he is open to trade talks with the European Union to arrive at a tariff deal, after slapping 30% tariffs on the bloc’s exports to the U.S. over the weekend. Talking to reporters at the White House,