Former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his desire to lift sanctions on Russia contingent upon a peace agreement with Ukraine. Speaking to reporters outside the White House, Trump indicated that he sees the easing of sanctions as a potential component of broader negotiations aimed at ending the ongoing conflict.
“I would very much like to see sanctions eased,” Trump stated, emphasizing his hope for a swift resolution to the war in Ukraine. His comments reflect a willingness to reconsider the current stance on sanctions if a diplomatic solution can be reached.
In related developments, the European Commission introduced a proposed 20th sanctions package against Russia in early February 2026. This initiative was intended for approval by February 24, coinciding with the anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. However, the proposal faced opposition from pro-Russian countries such as Hungary and Slovakia, which blocked its passage.
The new sanctions aim to target Russia’s energy and financial sectors significantly. Key measures include a complete ban on maritime services for transporting Russian oil and an expansion of the list of vessels classified as part of the “shadow fleet” to 640, along with restrictions on their servicing.
Donald Trump has called for the lifting of sanctions on Russia, contingent on a peace deal with Ukraine, while the EU faces challenges in implementing new sanctions against Russia's energy sector. His remarks come amid ongoing discussions about the conflict's resolution.
Source: РБК-Україна