Washington/DC, March 8 -- US President Donald Trump Friday said he finds it "easier" to deal with Russia than with Ukraine in his efforts to end the war in the pro-Western country.

He also said that he trusts Vladimir Putin.

"I believe him," Trump said in a televised press conference at the White House.

This comes just days after the spat with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office.

Earlier in the day, Donald Trump said that he is considering "large-scale" sanctions and tariffs against Russia until it reaches a ceasefire and peace agreement with Ukraine.

The statement comes after a wave of strikes in Ukraine on Thursday night.

"Based on the fact that Russia is absolutely 'pounding' Ukraine on the battlefield right ...