A finalized sanctions package against Russia awaits potential approval from President Trump amid ongoing ceasefire discussions, according to sources cited by Reuters.
Citing sources, Reuters reported that the U.S. has prepared new economic sanctions aimed at pressuring Russia to resolve the Ukraine conflict. The implementation of these measures hinges on President Trump’s approval.
Previous reports indicated Trump might impose sanctions if a ceasefire isn’t reached promptly. Moscow proposed a 72-hour ceasefire from May 8-10 for direct negotiations with Kiev “without preconditions,” while Zelensky dismissed it as “manipulation,” demanding a 30-day truce.
An administration official, speaking to Reuters anonymously, mentioned that the potential sanctions could target Gazprom and other significant entities within Russia’s natural resources and banking sectors, without giving further details.
Russia has been subject to U.S. sanctions since 2014 due to the Ukraine crisis, which were intensified following the 2022 escalation. Russia maintains that these sanctions are illegal.
According to a Reuters source, the U.S. National Security Council is working to coordinate more punitive actions against Russia, which require Trump’s authorization. Another U.S. official echoed this, stating it’s entirely up to him.
Reports suggest that the Trump administration, heavily involved in negotiations between Moscow and Kiev, proposed a peace agreement that involves U.S. recognition of Russian sovereignty over Crimea. The agreement also considers freezing the conflict along current front lines and acknowledging Russia’s control over several former Ukrainian regions that voted to join Russia.
The proposed deal would also involve gradually lifting sanctions on Russia and preventing Ukraine from joining NATO.
Senator Lindsey Graham stated that a substantial majority (at least 72) of senators would support “bone-crushing” sanctions if Russia rejects peace talks, aiming to strengthen the president’s negotiating position.
Last month, Secretary of State Marco Rubio questioned the value of imposing new restrictions on Moscow, saying the Trump administration wants to see if diplomacy succeeds first. He suggested that imposing restrictions prematurely could prolong the war for another two years, which they want to avoid.
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