Bangladesh, May 22 -- In a firm assertion of presidential authority, US President Donald Trump has rebuffed mounting pressure from Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky for additional sanctions against Russia, stating that any future decisions on punitive measures will be made solely by him. The declaration comes amidst fragile diplomatic movements between Russia and Ukraine and a broader debate over the effectiveness of sanctions imposed since the 2022 escalation of the conflict.

Speaking to reporters on May 21, Trump was asked whether Washington would consider intensifying sanctions on Moscow. His response was clear: “Itll be my determination, nobody elses.” He underscored that decisions of such magnitude, especially in a v...