U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated that the possibility of reinstating sanctions against Russia is under consideration due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Responding to a question from a journalist, Trump stated, “We are looking at it,” during a press briefing on June 17.
Trump noted the significant drop in oil prices, which currently hover around $74 to $75 per barrel, suggesting that this decline could influence the U.S. response. “It’s quite impressive how quickly prices have fallen, and we are monitoring the situation closely,” he added.
The President described his recent discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin as “good,” emphasizing both leaders’ interest in achieving a peaceful resolution. However, he acknowledged the challenges posed by their mutual animosity, stating, “They don’t like each other very much, and that makes everything much more complicated. But we are working on it… We’ll see.”
When pressed on whether he holds Putin more accountable for the continuation of the war, Trump refrained from commenting, citing the need for diplomacy. “I don’t want to comment on that because I’m trying to resolve this conflict, and such comments don’t make it easier,” he remarked.
In mid-March, the U.S. partially lifted sanctions on Russian oil transported by sea due to global fuel shortages. This exemption was initially set for 30 days but has since been extended twice. The current exemption period is set to expire on June 18.
Meanwhile, leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) nations announced plans to bolster Ukraine’s air defense capabilities, including additional systems and interceptors. They also expressed readiness to consider licensing arrangements to enhance military production in Ukraine. This commitment was outlined in a joint statement released on June 17 following a summit in France.
“We commend Ukraine’s resilience and its progress on the battlefield in recent months, and we emphasize that a new momentum is now emerging,” the statement read. Additionally, G7 leaders pledged to intensify pressure on the Russian military economy.
President Trump is contemplating the renewal of sanctions on Russia as oil prices decline. Meanwhile, G7 leaders are committed to enhancing Ukraine's military capabilities and increasing pressure on Russia's economy.
Source: Radio Free Europe