**Trump Asks OPEC to Lower Oil Prices to End Ukraine War**
US President Donald Trump has asked the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to lower oil prices, saying it would end Russia‘s war in Ukraine “immediately”.
Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Trump said: “If the price came down, the Russia-Ukraine war would end immediately.” He added that high oil prices were keeping the conflict going.
**What is OPEC?**
OPEC is a group of 12 countries, including Iraq, Iran, and Saudi Arabia, which together produce around 30% of the world’s oil. By adjusting their oil production levels, OPEC can significantly affect global oil prices.
**Lower Oil Prices Could Harm Russia**
If oil prices fall, it could deplete Russia’s main source of revenue for its war in Ukraine. However, any effects would likely take months to be felt.
Trump also suggested that the US could boost its own oil and gas production to push down prices and hurt Russian exports.
**Will There Be a Peace Deal?**
When asked if there would be a peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia by next year’s World Economic Forum, Trump said: “Well you’ll have to ask Russia. Ukraine is ready to make a deal.”
He also hoped that the US could work with China to end the war in Ukraine.
**Russia Unfazed by Trump’s Threats**
The Kremlin has dismissed Trump’s threats to impose sanctions if no deal on the war in Ukraine is reached, saying it sees nothing new in his approach. Russia is ready for “equal and respectful” dialogue with the US, but no meeting between Trump and Putin is currently planned.
**Ukraine Showcases Economic Potential**
President Volodymyr Zelensky led a Ukrainian delegation at the World Economic Forum to highlight the country’s economic potential and investment appeal. The country frames itself as a “prize, not a burden,” with significant natural resources and a strong defense and agricultural sector.