On Monday, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent made it clear that the Biden administration is prepared to level tougher sanctions against Russia. This action directly responds to Russia’s ongoing military escalation in Ukraine. His comments come after a dramatic increase in violence. Head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office Andriy Yermak tweeted that Russian forces had launched their biggest air attack since the start of the full-scale invasion, killing dozens and destroying vital Ukraine government infrastructure in Kyiv.
Bessent urged European allies to join the United States in efforts to “collapse” the Russian economy by exerting pressure on nations that continue to purchase Russian oil. He stressed that more sanctions and secondary tariffs targeting those countries importing Russian crude would help push the Russian economy to complete collapse. Combined, this pressure could push President Vladimir Putin to the negotiating table.
“We are prepared to increase pressure on Russia, but we need our European partners to follow us,” Bessent stated during a press briefing. His call to action reflects a growing consensus among Western leaders to take firmer measures against Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
Earlier on the same day, Russian airstrikes targeted key governmental buildings in Kyiv, killing at least four people and igniting fires. US Envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg called the attacks, perhaps appropriately, wrong and said that these attacks indicate a large scale escalation in the conflict. “The attack appears to be escalating with the largest attack of the war, hitting offices of the UKR Cabinet in Kyiv,” Kellogg remarked. He further asserted, “The attack was not a signal that Russia wants to diplomatically end this war.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for international support but underscored the need for stronger consequences for countries still engaging in trade with Russia. “I’m very thankful to all the partners, but some of them, I mean, they continue to buy oil and Russian gas and this is not fair… I think the idea to put tariffs on the countries that continue to make deals with Russia, I think this is the right idea,” he stated.
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly signaled his intent to intensify sanctions on Russia. Most recently, in response to the latest developments, he has targeted its oil buyers. When asked a few days ago at the White House about moving to “the second phase” of sanctions, Trump shrugged and slammed the door. “Yes, I am,” he said emphatically.
The Trump administration has already imposed 50 percent tariffs on India due to its continued purchases of Russian oil, showcasing a willingness to confront allies over their business dealings with Moscow. The shortness of time for these conversations is becoming more critical. As the shelling of Ukrainian cities continues, so too does the optimism for a negotiated peace between Ukraine and Russia.
