January 1, Trump Tightens Sanctions to Push Russia Back

Wyatt’s Take

• Trump hits Russia’s top oil giants with tough new sanctions.
• The move targets profits fueling Russia’s war against Ukraine.
• This is a big step to force peace and protect American interests.

President Trump’s administration is ramping up pressure on Russia by putting heavy sanctions on its biggest oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil. The Treasury Department says these steps are meant to cut off funding for Russia’s war effort in Ukraine.

“Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is imposing further sanctions as a result of Russia’s lack of serious commitment to a peace process to end the war in Ukraine,” the release begins.

These sanctions block property and assets in the United States linked to the targeted Russian companies. Subsidiaries under these groups, especially those tied to energy production, will also be hit. U.S. citizens and companies are warned not to do business with them.

“Today’s actions increase pressure on Russia’s energy sector and degrade the Kremlin’s ability to raise revenue for its war machine and support its weakened economy,” it continues.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said, “Now is the time to stop the killing and for an immediate ceasefire.” He explained these measures go after “Russia’s two largest oil companies that fund the Kremlin’s war machine.”

He also warned, “Treasury is prepared to take further action if necessary to support President Trump’s effort to end yet another war. We encourage our allies to join us in and adhere to these sanctions.”

Foreign banks helping these Russian companies may face penalties too. Trump made it clear during a meeting with NATO’s leader that “These are tremendous sanctions,” aimed at bringing the war to a stop.

@POTUS: “These are tremendous sanctions. These are very big against their two big oil companies — and we hope that they won’t be on for long. We hope that the war will be settled.”

Since reclaiming office, Trump has pushed hard to end the war. He even put a 25 percent tariff on India months back for buying Russian oil. His message: keep squeezing until peace comes to Ukraine.

If you believe in standing up for America’s strength and security, stay tuned for more updates on this story.

Wyatt Matters

Middle Americans want peace without endless wars or foreign entanglements. These strong actions aim to protect our workers and keep our nation safe by standing up to bullies abroad—just like we’d expect any neighbor to do when trouble comes knocking.

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