A significant escalation in US pressure on Russia has been signaled with the implementation of “pretty hefty” new sanctions, according to the White House. On Thursday, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that these measures are expected to exert considerable force on Moscow, citing observations that key buyers like China and India are reportedly scaling back their Russian oil imports. Leavitt described the approach as a “full court press” and anticipated that the sanctions would result in significant economic repercussions. The Trump administration’s action on Wednesday focused on Russia’s two principal oil companies, linking these penalties to a demand for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine. When asked about the possibility of further sanctions, Leavitt deferred to President Trump’s decision-making authority. She explained to CNN that President Trump’s decision to announce the sanctions and cancel his planned meeting with President Putin was driven by his assessment that Russia had not demonstrated sufficient commitment to advancing peace negotiations. Leavitt confirmed the President’s long-held prerogative to impose sanctions when he deems it fitting and necessary, marking Wednesday as such an instance. She also highlighted the President’s expressed frustration with President Putin and the ongoing conflict, underscoring that a genuine desire for peace from both sides is a prerequisite for successful negotiations. President Trump confirmed the meeting’s cancellation on Wednesday, stating it was due to the perceived lack of progress towards critical objectives, but indicated that a future meeting is possible. Leavitt elaborated that the administration hopes for a future meeting but wants to ensure it will be productive and a worthwhile use of the President’s time. While acknowledging a call between Secretary Rubio and Foreign Minister Lavrov that revealed divergent views, Leavitt stated this was not the exclusive reason for the cancellation, emphasizing the President’s focus on ensuring a valuable diplomatic engagement. Meanwhile, the European Union has also intensified its financial penalties against Moscow, launching its 19th round of sanctions targeting Russia’s energy, financial, and military sectors.
