US reduces involvement in sanctions enforcement against Russia – Bloomberg
Photo: US reduces involvement in sanctions enforcement against Russia (Getty Images)
The United States of America has almost ceased participation in several working groups established to counter Russia’s attempts to bypass sanctions, according to Bloomberg.
Bloomberg explains that, after the start of the full-scale war, when a sanctions regime was formed against Russia, Ukraine’s allies created several working and task forces to coordinate efforts to enforce restrictions. These groups monitor restrictions on the terrorist state's access to technology, components, and other goods necessary for its military operations.
According to unnamed officials, these groups also work on joint actions, including sanctions against companies in third countries that assist Russia and diplomatic pressure on these nations to block trade routes benefiting Moscow. The UK, European Union countries, and other G7 allies of Ukraine continue to coordinate these efforts.
However, the US is retreating from efforts to tighten sanctions against Russia and has practically stopped participating in several working groups. Washington ignores the activities of a group focused on preventing Russia from obtaining essential equipment for arms production. The US remains silent in another group dedicated to monitoring and enforcing the G7’s price cap on Russian oil.
"It’s not clear to them whether the US has taken an active decision to scale back its involvement or it simply lacks key personnel, the officials said. Some meetings have been attended by more junior officials with little decision-making power," Bloomberg notes.
Sanctions against Russia
After Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the international community imposed sanctions on the terrorist state. The EU, U.S., UK, Canada, Japan, and other nations introduced restrictions covering the financial sector, technology exports, energy, and defense industries.
On February 24, the European Council approved the 16th package of sanctions against Russia, targeting, among other things, Russia’s shadow fleet and banks circumventing restrictions.
