U.S. Pressure Capabilities Towards Russia: Are the Instruments of Diplomacy and Sanctions Ready for Action?
Analyzing recent expert opinions and diplomatic assessments, it appears that the United States possesses a considerable arsenal of tools to exert pressure on Russia.
These include a broad range of sanctions, secondary sanctions, tariff measures, and influence over global energy markets.
Despite Donald Trump’s setback during his meeting with the Russian leader in Anchorage, Washington retains the capacity to deploy various pressure mechanisms.Valeriy Chaly, a former Ukrainian ambassador to the United States, highlighted in his interview with ZN.UA that Washington could leverage tangible instruments such as new sanctions, economic levers, and manipulations of oil prices—entirely under U.S.
control.
“The U.S.
has in its arsenal targeted weapons supplies, economic influence, and the ability to sway global energy prices,” he emphasized.However, the core issue lies not in the absence of tools, but in the political will and readiness of leaders, particularly Trump, to implement them.
Discussing China, Chaly noted that while dealing with Beijing is more complex, China could serve as an alternative means of influence on Russia.
“These mechanisms exist and are within U.S.
reach.
The question is whether they will be utilized,” he stated.According to him, U.S.
strategy should involve European leadership taking the lead.
European nations and their leaders are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping future actions.
At the same time, the U.S.
will remain involved, especially if Russia begins exerting control over Ukraine or makes unacceptable demands, challenging American and Ukrainian interests.In conclusion, Chaly stressed that the real question is not about the lack of tools but about political resolve.
“Why haven’t these mechanisms been used before, and why might they be used now? I remain skeptical about quick changes,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, Vlodimir Yelchenko, a former U.S.
ambassador to Ukraine, suggests that Washington might resort to rhetorical pressure and strategic maneuvers, but substantive actions against Russia are likely to be cautious and aimed at demonstration rather than major policy shifts.Furthermore, the expert notes that the U.S.
cannot ignore the geopolitical context, especially considering China’s rising influence in the region.
As Beijing closely monitors these developments, it could exploit the situation for its interests, complicating Washington’s strategy regarding Russia and Ukraine.