Jin10 data reported on August 14th, before meeting with Russian President Putin, U.S. President Trump raised the stakes. This is not only about the Ukraine conflict, but also about his own credibility. Three individuals who participated in discussions with Trump asserted that he is not bluffing; this is no longer the preliminary meeting Trump previously mentioned. He privately told the Ukrainian president and NATO leaders that his goal is a ceasefire, and then publicly threatened Putin that there would be "very serious consequences" if he does not agree to stop fighting. "This is the most serious and direct statement Trump has ever made. He wants to show this to the world," a senior U.S. official said. "Now, the responsibility falls on Putin: agree to a ceasefire or demonstrate real action, otherwise face serious consequences," the official continued, "Putin must show very proactive action." Another U.S. official insisted that Putin "proactively reached out to Trump," and then requested this meeting; now he must deliver.