Trump To Sanction Russia More

In a recent Senate confirmation hearing, Scott Bessent, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Treasury Secretary, affirmed his strong commitment to ramping up sanctions on Russia’s major oil companies if the strategy aligns with President Trump’s broader approach to ending the war in Ukraine. During the session, Bessent told lawmakers that he would fully support intensifying sanctions, particularly targeting Russian oil giants, to force the Russian government to the negotiating table.

“If confirmed, and if President Trump directs me to take further action on sanctions as part of a strategy to bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine, I will be 100 percent on board,” Bessent stated. This bold statement came in response to a question from Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.), who had asked for clarity on Bessent’s stance on Russian sanctions.

Bessent did not hold back in criticizing the Biden administration’s approach, suggesting that the sanctions implemented under President Biden’s leadership were insufficient. “The sanctions imposed by this administration were not aggressive enough,” Bessent argued, noting that the previous administration had been cautious about any actions that might disrupt the U.S. energy market—especially in the run-up to an election. He pointed to the administration’s reluctance to target Russian oil companies more aggressively, fearing that doing so could lead to a rise in domestic fuel prices.

The Biden administration’s recent move to increase sanctions on Russian oil, Bessent noted, has already led to a rise in oil prices by about 9 percent. This, he said, highlights the failure of the current strategy, especially when U.S. energy prices are being directly impacted.

Senator Warner, a Democrat, acknowledged the importance of keeping all tools, including sanctions, on the table. He commended Bessent’s clear stance on increasing sanctions to apply more pressure on Russia and stated that he would give “full consideration” to confirming Bessent. Warner’s remarks suggest that there is some bipartisan support for a tougher stance on Russia, a position that resonates strongly with Republicans who see a firm, no-compromise approach to Russia as vital for national security.

As tensions continue to rise, the U.S. must remain resolute in its efforts to weaken Russia’s hold over the global energy market and prevent further escalation in Ukraine. Bessent’s unwavering stance offers a clear signal that, if confirmed, the Trump administration will pursue stronger, more effective sanctions to end the war and protect U.S. interests.