In a show of frustration over Vladimir Putin’s “maximalist demands,” the Trump administration has sanctioned Russian oil giants Rosneft and Lukoil. The move is the administration’s most direct attempt to punish the Kremlin for its war in Ukraine.
The sanctions represent a significant policy shift. After returning to the White House, the administration had oscillated between pressuring Kyiv to cede territory and confronting Moscow. This action signals a new, tougher approach.
The Treasury Department stated the penalties were a response to Putin’s “refusal to end this senseless war.” Secretary Scott Bessent called for an “immediate ceasefire” and an end to the “killing.”
The economic pressure was matched by a diplomatic snub. President Trump confirmed he had canceled a planned summit with Putin, telling reporters it “didn’t feel right” and that negotiations were failing.
This pivot was welcomed by Ukraine and its European allies. EU President Ursula von der Leyen praised the “collective pressure” and confirmed the EU is also preparing its 19th sanctions package against Russia.