Marking a dramatic “swing of the pendulum,” the Trump administration has shifted its policy from coercing Kyiv to sue for peace to directly punishing Moscow. The White House has sanctioned Russia’s two largest oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil.
This pivot is seen as a response to growing frustration with Vladimir Putin’s “maximalist demands” and his “refusal to end this senseless war.” The sanctions are the first major economic penalties imposed on Russia since Trump returned to the White House.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the move, calling for an “immediate ceasefire” and an end to the “killing” in Ukraine. He warned that more actions could follow if the war continues.
The policy shift was underscored by President Trump’s cancellation of a planned summit with Putin. Trump said the timing “didn’t feel right,” signaling a breakdown in diplomatic negotiations.
This new, tougher stance was hailed as a victory for Ukraine and its European allies. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised the “collective pressure” and confirmed the EU is also preparing its 19th sanctions package against Russia.