President Donald Trump has extended U.S. sanctions against Russia for another year, citing ongoing threats to national security. The sanctions, initially imposed in 2014 following Russia’s annexation of Crimea, have been expanded through multiple executive orders under successive administrations. Trump’s recent executive order continues the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13660, stating that Russia’s actions “continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States.”
The sanctions encompass asset freezes, financial restrictions, and prohibitions on business dealings with specific Russian individuals and entities. While the Trump administration has considered increasing sanctions to further pressure Russia, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated that current measures are at a “6 out of 10” level, leaving room for escalation if necessary.
This extension underscores the U.S. commitment to applying economic pressure on Russia amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning the situation in Ukraine. The sanctions are set to remain in effect until March 6, 2026, unless further action is taken.
Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky AP pic Via FMT CC BY 4 0