The Kremlin has declared that it possesses ‘immunity’ against upcoming US sanctions, as a looming deadline set by former President Donald Trump approaches. This bold statement reflects Moscow’s continued defiance amid escalating tensions with Washington over a range of geopolitical disputes, including Ukraine, cyberattacks, and election interference allegations.
Moscow’s confident stance amid pressure
In remarks delivered by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, officials asserted that Russia’s economy and political system are prepared to withstand additional punitive measures planned by the United States. “We have developed robust mechanisms that render us effectively immune to such sanctions,” Peskov stated during a press briefing.
The assertion comes as the Trump administration reportedly intends to impose a fresh tranche of sanctions targeting key sectors of the Russian economy, including energy, finance, and defence. Sources indicate that these measures are expected to be announced within days, potentially escalating the long-running US-Russia confrontation.
Sanctions as political leverage
US officials have characterised the new sanctions as a response to Russia’s continued involvement in Ukraine, alleged cyber operations targeting US infrastructure, and interference in American elections. The timing is significant, with Trump signalling intentions to harden policies on Russia in the final months before the 2025 US presidential election.
Analysts note that sanctions have become a central tool in Washington’s strategy to pressure Moscow, but the Kremlin’s claims of immunity suggest Moscow is banking on economic resilience and alternative partnerships, notably with China and other emerging markets, to mitigate impact.
Economic realities and limitations
Despite Kremlin assurances, economists caution that additional sanctions could still impose meaningful strain on Russia’s economy. While Moscow has stockpiled foreign reserves and diversified trade away from the West, sectors reliant on Western technology and financing remain vulnerable.
Some Western businesses have already scaled back operations in Russia, compounding challenges. However, Moscow’s tighter fiscal controls and import substitution policies have, to date, cushioned some effects, lending credibility to claims of limited exposure.
Geopolitical implications
The Kremlin’s defiance underscores the ongoing deterioration in US-Russia relations, which remain at Cold War-era lows. The threat of escalating sanctions coincides with intensified diplomatic standoffs over Ukraine’s conflict zone and Russia’s military build-up near NATO borders.
Moscow’s message also serves as a signal to domestic and international audiences that it will not capitulate under external pressure, projecting strength to its citizens and allies alike.
Looking ahead
As the US prepares to unveil new sanctions, the international community watches closely. Should Trump proceed, the effectiveness of sanctions in altering Russian behaviour will again come under scrutiny. Meanwhile, Moscow’s claim of ‘immunity’ may prove more political posturing than economic fact — a gambit aimed at undermining US leverage.
Whatever the outcome, the sanctions saga exemplifies the complex interplay of diplomacy, economics, and domestic politics shaping one of today’s most fraught geopolitical relationships.
REFH – Newshub, 31 July 2025
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