Trump reluctant on Russia sanctions due to economic concerns – Merz
Friedrich Merz, Chancellor of Germany (Getty Images)
US President Donald Trump is "in no hurry" to impose crippling sanctions on Russia — likely because such measures could harm the American economy, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said in an interview with Süddeutsche Zeitung.
The chancellor noted that wars usually end either in military defeat or economic exhaustion. At present, there is no indication of a military defeat for either of the warring sides, and from an economic standpoint, both Russia and Ukraine could endure for a long time.
"In the end, only one option remains: can Putin be forced to come to the negotiating table through tougher sanctions?" Merz emphasized.
In response, the journalist asked the chancellor why President Trump is refusing to impose tougher sanctions on Russia.
"Sanctions also hurt his own economy. But the US Senate is currently actively discussing new sanctions, and the final decision will rest with the president," Merz replied.
He added that he is doing everything possible to ensure that the European Union and the United States coordinate the introduction of tougher sanctions against the aggressor state.
Trump has not imposed new sanctions on Russia
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly warned that if Russia refuses to seek peace, he will impose devastating sanctions against it.
Meanwhile, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has assured that Trump is prepared to escalate restrictions on Russia to the maximum level.
American senators have already drafted a new sanctions bill targeting Russia. It includes 500% tariffs on any country that continues to purchase oil — and potentially other goods — from Russia.
