President Donald Trump is contemplating imposing new sanctions and tariffs on Russia in response to its ongoing war against Ukraine. Trump expressed his consideration for these measures due to the current intense conflict between Russia and Ukraine. He emphasized that these sanctions could be maintained until a ceasefire and peace settlement are reached. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent affirmed that the U.S. is prepared to escalate sanctions against Russia to leverage peace negotiations.

Contrary to Joe Biden’s administration, which imposed numerous sanctions on Russia during the Ukraine invasion, Bessent criticized the sanctions on Russian energy as inadequate and motivated by concerns about U.S. energy prices. Under Trump’s directive, sanctions will be used decisively and monitored closely to achieve specific goals, with the potential for further economic pressure on Russia.

Despite recent attacks by Russia on Ukrainian energy facilities, including missile strikes and drone attacks, Trump remains focused on diplomatic solutions. He plans to send key officials to Saudi Arabia to discuss targeting Russia’s oil revenue as a means to end the conflict. Trump’s complex history with Russian President Vladimir Putin, including his past trust in Putin amidst allegations of Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. election, underpins his current approach to the Ukraine crisis.

Overall, Trump’s proposed actions reflect a strategic combination of economic pressure, diplomatic engagement, and cautious trust-building efforts to address the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.