US President Donald Trump has said his administration is prepared to impose further sanctions on Russia, as Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen foreshadowed the possibility of new oil tariffs in coordination with European allies. The remarks came amid heightened scrutiny following last week’s Alaska summit between Trump and Vladimir Putin, which Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said gave Moscow the publicity it sought.
New sanctions under consideration
Speaking in Washington, Trump confirmed that additional measures against Russia are being evaluated, particularly in energy and financial sectors. While details remain under discussion, officials signalled that restrictions could target state-owned enterprises and individuals connected to the Kremlin. The comments reinforced the White House’s position that punitive steps will continue until Moscow scales back its military aggression in Ukraine.
Oil tariffs on the table
Treasury Secretary Yellen suggested that tariffs on Russian oil could form part of a joint strategy with Europe to curb the Kremlin’s revenues. She said discussions with European finance ministers were progressing and that a coordinated approach would be essential to ensure effectiveness. Analysts note that while sanctions have already reduced Russia’s oil income, new tariffs would raise costs further and could reshape global energy flows.
Ukraine’s criticism of Alaska meeting
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy criticised the Trump-Putin meeting in Alaska, warning that it gave Russia unwarranted international visibility. “This was the publicity he wanted,” Zelenskyy said, adding that such summits risk undermining efforts to isolate Moscow diplomatically. Kyiv continues to urge Western allies to maintain pressure, arguing that sanctions must be enforced more strictly and loopholes closed.
Markets and global reaction
Financial markets reacted cautiously, with oil prices edging higher on expectations of tighter supply if tariffs are imposed. European leaders expressed support for further measures but emphasised the need to balance energy security. Meanwhile, Moscow dismissed the possibility of new sanctions as “politically motivated theatre” and vowed to redirect exports toward Asia and other partners.
Day 1,293 of the war
The developments come on the 1,293rd day of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The war has entrenched divisions in global politics, with sanctions forming a central tool of Western response. While Russia has adapted to some restrictions, fresh measures could add pressure to its economy. For the US, aligning with Europe on tariffs would send a strong signal of continued transatlantic unity, though the policy’s impact on global energy markets remains uncertain.
Newshub, 8 September 2025
Recent Comments