Hassett: timing, level of Russia sanctions up to Trump

Hassett: timing, level of Russia sanctions up to Trump

President Donald Trump has called on European leaders to align with the U.S. in imposing further sanctions on Russia, particularly targeting oil and gas imports. This directive comes as the European Commission has proposed legislation to phase out EU imports of Russian oil and gas by January 1, 2028, aiming to sever long-standing energy ties with Russia following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine [1].

Trump, frustrated with his inability to halt the Ukraine War, emphasized the need for collective action by the U.S. and Europe to apply economic pressure on Russia. In a call with European leaders, Trump suggested that sanctions on oil and gas were a viable option and could be finalized within the next 24 hours. Finnish President Alexander Stubb echoed Trump's sentiments, stating that the U.S. and Europe must act together on sanctions to halt Russia's war machine [1].

The White House has urged Europe to cease purchasing Russian oil, which it claims is funding the war in Ukraine. According to a White House official, Russia received €1.1 billion ($1.28 billion) in fuel sales from the EU in one year [1]. Trump also called for economic pressure to be placed on China for its role in funding Russia's war efforts.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, in an interview with Fox News, echoed Trump's stance, stating that "all options are on the table" for potential new sanctions on Russia. Bessent noted that Putin's continued bombing campaign in Ukraine, despite recent peace talks, has not followed through on commitments made during meetings with European leaders and President Zelensky [2].

The European Commission's proposal to phase out Russian oil and gas imports by 2028 is a significant step in severing economic ties with Russia. This move comes as the U.S. and Europe seek to exert more economic pressure on Russia to end its aggression in Ukraine. The proposed sanctions on oil and gas imports are part of a broader strategy to undercut Moscow's war machine economically.

References:
[1] https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wants-us-europe-in-sync-on-russia-sanctions-says-stop-buying-russian-oil-gas-1757010968325
[2] https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/bessent-warns-all-options-table-russia-sanctions