Donald Trump has not yet made a final decision regarding the possible implementation of “very strong” sanctions against Russia, and this issue remains under consideration
The current situation has attracted widespread attention from political analysts and experts, as the question of Washington’s next steps in its relations with Moscow continues to remain open. According to "European Pravda," during a conversation with journalists aboard a military Air Force One plane, the U.S. president expressed his views on the potential application of additional sanctions if the circumstances warrant it. He stated that the decision to impose them would depend on how willing Moscow is to move toward a compromise and cease military actions and bloodshed in eastern Ukraine. Trump emphasized that the final word on sanctions lies with him, since the relevant legislation grants him broad powers. The White House leader noted: “If I believe that Russia does not intend to make deals or stop its aggression, then I will implement additional measures. The bill signed by the senators, which gives me the authority to do so, is very strong, and I will use this tool at my discretion. But at the moment, I have not made a decision regarding their application.” Trump expressed confidence that the decision to tighten or soften sanctions is his prerogative, and he will make the right choice depending on the situation. The bill currently being discussed in the Senate was initiated by Senators Richard Blumenthal (Democrat) and Lindsey Graham (Republican). It proposes introducing additional economic restrictions against Moscow in case of refusal to engage in peace negotiations and aims to compel Russia to pay substantial financial penalties. As part of this bill, a 500 percent tariff on goods imported by countries that purchase Russian oil is suggested, serving as an leverage exerted on Moscow. The legislation has received support not only in the Senate but also in the House of Representatives, indicating a consensus within Congress. Meanwhile, White House spokesperson Carline Leavitt stated that the final decision on sanctions will be made by the president himself. The Trump administration additionally approached Senators Graham and Blumenthal to request softer sanctions measures within the framework of the relevant bill, in order to maintain a balance between political and security interests. Diplomatic and policy tools remain at the center of U.S. executive authority’s focus amidst the tense developments surrounding Ukraine and international relations with Russia, and Trump’s final decision will determine the further trajectory of Washington’s sanctions policy toward Moscow.