Russia has described US President Donald Trump’s recent comments as “serious” after he announced new arms deliveries to Ukraine and threatened sanctions on countries buying Russian exports, Firstpost reported.

Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Russian President Vladimir Putin, but said he still wants to be a mediator.

Russian spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said some of the remarks were aimed directly at Putin and require careful review. He added that decisions from the United States and its allies are seen by Ukraine as encouragement to continue the war, according to Firstpost.

Russia reaffirmed its readiness for direct talks and said it is still waiting for Ukraine to respond.