The United States has announced new sanctions targeting two of Russia’s largest oil companies—Rosneft and Lukoil—in an effort to pressure Moscow into negotiating a peace deal in Ukraine.
Frustration with Negotiations and Sanctions
President Donald Trump stated that his diplomatic efforts with the Russian leader have been unproductive.
“Every time I talk to Vladimir, I have good conversations and then they go nowhere. They just go nowhere,” said President Trump following a meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte to discuss the peace negotiations.
The announcement of sanctions comes a day after Trump said a planned meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Budapest would be indefinitely postponed.
Aim of the New Measures
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the new sanctions were necessary due to “Putin’s refusal to end this senseless war.” He specifically accused the oil companies of funding the Kremlin’s “war machine.”
- Targeted Companies: Rosneft and Lukoil.
- Goal: To push Russia to agree to an immediate ceasefire.
- Trump’s Stance: Trump called the sanctions package “extraordinary” and expressed hope that they could be quickly withdrawn if Russia agrees to stop the war.
Speaking alongside Rutte in the Oval Office, Trump criticized Putin for not being serious about achieving peace. Rutte praised the move, saying it was “exerting more pressure” on Putin.
The sanctions were announced a day after Russia launched an intensive bombing campaign on Ukraine that killed at least seven people, including children.
