The Trump administration’s “pendulum” on Russia policy has swung again, this time toward confrontation. The US has sanctioned Rosneft and Lukoil, Russia’s two largest oil companies, marking a significant escalation of economic pressure on the Kremlin.
This move represents a shift from earlier administration tactics, which sometimes focused on coercing Kyiv to accept peace terms. Now, the White House appears to be responding to frustration with Vladimir Putin’s “maximalist demands” and his refusal to negotiate an end to the war.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the sanctions, calling for an “immediate ceasefire” in Ukraine. He blamed Putin’s “senseless war” and stated the goal was to cut off funding for the “Kremlin’s war machine.”
The sanctions were welcomed by European allies. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called it a “clear signal” of “collective pressure,” as the EU prepares its own 19th package of restrictions against Moscow.
The new policy was also reflected in President Trump’s decision to cancel a planned summit with Putin. Trump said the timing “didn’t feel right,” underscoring the breakdown in negotiations that led to the new economic penalties.
