US President Donald Trump stated on Saturday that the US is willing to implement “major sanctions” on Russian oil – but only after all NATO members commit to taking similar measures.
This statement was posted by his Truth Social page at a time when tensions are rising over Russia’s war in Ukraine, and NATO members continue to disagree on the extent of their efforts to curb Moscow’s oil revenues.
Trump said he was “ready to impose major sanctions on Russia” when NATO nations agreed and began to follow suit, as well as when they STOP buying oil from Russia.
The effectiveness of additional sanctions depends on the unity among NATO members, he said.
Many European countries have reduced their oil purchases from Russia or stopped them altogether. However, certain NATO nations, such as Hungary, are resisting more severe measures.
The European Union’s efforts to more aggressively target Russia’s energy sector have been slowed by their stance.
G-7 tariff and coordination proposals
Discussions within the Group of Seven (7 G-7) about ways to increase economic sanctions on Moscow coincide with discussions over sanctions.
Bloomberg reported Friday that US was preparing to ask allies of the G-7 group to apply tariffs up to 100 percent to China and India if they continue to buy Russian oil.
This move is intended to lower Russia’s revenue and persuade President Vladimir Putin of the need to cut back on military operations in Ukraine.
Trump said that tariffs could be linked to the end of the war.
He wrote: “This will help to end this WAR, which is RIDICULOUS and deadly.
Beijing could retaliate if you take action against China.
Trump’s tone has been softer at times toward China, while he seeks a summit meeting with President Xi Jinping. He also wants to advance negotiations for a trade agreement.
These proposed sanctions may also threaten the fragile truce that has been reached in the US-China Trade dispute.
In the next few days, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent (left) and US Trade Representative Jamieson Grer will meet with Chinese officials at Madrid.
During their Friday meeting, the G-7 Finance Ministers discussed additional measures for tightening sanctions against Russia.
Stresses between NATO and Russia
Trump, who has been pursuing peace talks with Putin while pursuing new sanctions against Russia, has not introduced any fresh measures.
The recent meeting between Putin and Zelenskiy in Alaska did not result in any change in the military strategy of Moscow. Efforts to set up a tri-party summit with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy also failed.
Trump seems to be more resolute after recent Russian airstrikes on Kyiv that were carried out following the Alaska Summit.
The commitment of NATO to WIN is far from 100% and some have purchased Russian oil. This has shocked many. He said that it would greatly reduce your bargaining position and power with Russia.
Hungary is one of the main holdouts, as its President Viktor Orban – a Trump supporter – has kept close ties to Putin.
Hungary signed a contract to purchase 4.5 billion cubic metres of Russian gas per year until 2036. Additional purchases have been made since 2022.
While Trump’s rhetoric is intensifying, it remains to be seen whether NATO countries can unite on a common approach for sanctions, especially as many continue to heavily rely on Russian energy.
The post Trump: US to sanction Russian oil for NATO stopping buying it could be updated as new information unfolds
