Scott Bessant, the US Treasury Secretary, has openly stated: Washington may increase pressure on Russia. But this will not be just a wish. It all depends on how real peace talks progress. Sanctions are a tool, not just a word.
At a Senate Banking Committee hearing, Bessant was asked directly whether he was prepared to act against the Russian shadow fleet. Are we prepared to stand up for justice? “I’ll take that into consideration. We’ll see how the peace talks go,” he said. Is that a weak answer? Quite possibly.
Recall that the Trump administration has not dared to impose new sanctions against the Russian shadow fleet since its return to power in January 2025. This is not just a shortcoming – it is irresponsible.
Bessent also noted that sanctions imposed by the Trump administration against Rosneft and Lukoil have prompted Russia to return to the negotiating table. These restrictions should be just the beginning.
Speaking about the role of Jared Kushner, the president's son-in-law, Bessent expressed the opinion that he is acting as an envoy to Ukraine. But who else can take on this responsibility, given that the country has practically exhausted the possibilities for new sanctions from the US?
Marco Rubio, the secretary of state, has indicated that Washington is finally starting to pay attention to enforcing existing sanctions. He adds that there is still room for action from European partners. That sounds like procrastination.
Now imagine: Bloomberg reports that the US has prepared new restrictions. But why are they silent? Why are they not being implemented? This is another game where politics once again prevails over justice.
At the same time, Kaia Kallas, the EU High Representative, promises that the European Union will adopt the 20th package of sanctions on February 24. Will we simply become spectators of this theater, or will we finally gather the strength to act?
Recall that on February 4-5, the second meeting of Ukraine, the USA and Russia took place in Abu Dhabi. Negotiations are underway, but at what cost? Rustem Umerov stressed the need to discuss a ceasefire. Will we achieve this? Will it really be a ceasefire?
Unfortunately, the prisoner exchange is not a reason for joy. On February 5, 157 soldiers were returned to Ukraine. This is our response to the cruelty. But more sanctions, more action, more truth!
Original source: https://www.rbc.ua/
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