Trump’s Envoy responds on when sanctions against Russia could be eased
Photo: US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff (Getty Images)
Sanctions against Russia could be eased, but only after a ceasefire agreement in Ukraine, according to Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff.
"Easing of anti-Russian sanctions will follow agreement on ceasefire in Ukraine," Trump's envoy said.
Witkoff also added that Russia is a critical relationship for the US.
Sanctions against Russia
Since the start of the full-scale invasion, a number of Ukraine's Western partners have imposed various sanctions on Russia. Their goal has been to isolate and weaken Russia’s economic and military potential.
The sanctions have included financial restrictions, such as disconnecting Russian banks from the SWIFT system, as well as bans on exporting high-tech goods. Additionally, personal sanctions have been imposed on Russian high-ranking officials, oligarchs, and companies linked to Vladimir Putin’s regime.
Currently, the EU is working on its 17th package of sanctions against Russia. Foreign ministers have also discussed increasing military aid to Ukraine.
Meanwhile, the White House recently stated that US President Donald Trump could impose sanctions on Russia if his negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin are unsuccessful. Trump threatened to tighten sanctions if Russia refused to engage in talks.
Notably, on March 13, the US did not extend the permission for Russian banks to process European payments for oil sales. The general license for purchasing Russian oil expired on March 12, meaning that European countries and US allies can no longer buy Russian oil without facing US sanctions.
