Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Henry Owen | Stone Reporter News
In a significant shift in US foreign policy, President Donald Trump announced sanctions targeting Russia’s major oil producers, Rosneft and Lukoil, marking a firm stance after months of warnings. The announcement came a day after Trump indefinitely postponed a proposed meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Budapest, citing frustrations over stalled peace negotiations.
The sanctions aim to pressure Moscow over its ongoing invasion of Ukraine, cutting into the funding of Russia’s war efforts. While Russia claims it is largely “immune” to such measures, the move signals a notable escalation in international efforts to hold the Kremlin accountable. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized that the sanctions are necessary due to “Putin’s refusal to end this senseless war,” noting that the two oil firms directly support the Russian government’s military operations.
Russia’s oil exports, which amount to 3.1 million barrels per day, make up a significant portion of global energy supply, with major customers including China, India, and Turkey. Trump has urged these nations to halt purchases to maximize economic pressure, with India reportedly planning sharp reductions in Russian imports. China, however, has expressed opposition to the sanctions.
The sanctions follow ongoing requests from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has urged stronger measures to compel Moscow to negotiate a ceasefire. While Trump hopes the sanctions might trigger a breakthrough, he left the door open for reversal if Russia ceases hostilities.
On the ground, the conflict continues to take a severe toll. Recent strikes have killed civilians in Kyiv and other regions, including children, as Russia maintains heavy bombardments. Meanwhile, power was restored to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, previously without electricity for a month, averting potential nuclear hazards.
The sanctions coincide with coordinated moves by the UK and the EU, which recently imposed similar measures on Russian energy firms and announced a gradual phase-out of Russian liquefied natural gas by 2028. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the sanctions as a “clear signal” of transatlantic unity, while NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte welcomed the step as strengthening pressure on Moscow.
Amid these developments, diplomatic efforts continue, including a proposed 12-point plan by European allies and Kyiv aimed at freezing front lines, repatriating deported children, organizing prisoner exchanges, and providing Ukraine with security guarantees and a pathway toward EU membership.
Russia, however, remains resistant. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reaffirmed Moscow’s stance that Ukrainian troops must vacate certain eastern regions, complicating immediate progress toward peace.
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