According to Reuters, the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump is considering easing sanctions on Russia as part of efforts to restore diplomatic relations and explore ways to end the war in Ukraine. Sources familiar with the matter revealed that the White House has instructed the State and Treasury Departments to draft a list of sanctions that could be lifted. This list is expected to be a focal point in upcoming discussions with Russian officials.
Which Sanctions Might Be Lifted?
According to Reuters sources, U.S. officials are currently working on a framework that may include lifting restrictions on specific Russian companies and individuals, including prominent business figures. While no final decision has been made, the fact that the White House is actively considering sanctions relief underscores the administration’s commitment to engaging with Moscow.
Although drafting “options papers” is a standard procedure for agencies dealing with sanctions, the recent directive from the White House highlights Trump’s willingness to negotiate with Russia. However, it remains unclear what concessions Washington might seek in return.
The State Department, the Treasury Department, and the Russian embassy in the U.S. have yet to provide official comments on the matter.
A New U.S. Policy Direction on Russia
Just a year ago, the Kremlin described U.S.-Russia relations under President Joe Biden as being “below zero.” Biden, a staunch supporter of Ukraine, supplied the country with military aid and imposed stringent sanctions on Russia in response to its 2022 invasion.
However, Trump has taken a different approach. Shortly after assuming office, he initiated direct communication with the Kremlin, starting with a phone call to Russian President Vladimir Putin on February 12. This was followed by diplomatic meetings between U.S. and Russian officials in Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
In January, Trump had warned that sanctions could be intensified if Moscow was unwilling to negotiate peace. However, in recent weeks, his administration has begun signaling a possible shift, suggesting that easing sanctions might be on the table.
On February 20, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated in an interview with Bloomberg Television that economic relief for Russia was possible, depending on its approach to negotiations. Trump himself told reporters on February 26 that sanctions could be eased “at some point.”
Economic Cooperation and Potential Deals
According to Reuters, the White House had initiated discussions on a possible sanctions relief plan even before Trump extended the state of emergency regarding the situation in Ukraine. This emergency order includes sanctions that freeze assets and impose restrictions on individuals and entities involved in Russia’s war. The measures were first introduced by the Obama administration in March 2014 following Russia’s annexation of Crimea.
The exact sanctions that may be lifted remain unknown. Experts suggest that Trump could issue an executive order allowing the administration to start rolling back some sanctions, but certain measures would require congressional approval.
Despite its wartime economy and increased military production, Russia continues to face economic challenges due to Western restrictions. The Kremlin has expressed openness to economic cooperation, emphasizing its vast reserves of rare earth metals and signaling readiness for business deals.
A formal economic agreement with Moscow would likely necessitate sanctions relief. At the same time, Trump is pursuing other strategic interests. According to Reuters, he has been exploring a minerals deal with Ukraine, which holds significant deposits of lithium and rare earth elements. However, no agreement was reached following a tense Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
What’s Next?
It remains uncertain whether Trump will be able to implement his strategy fully. Any attempt to ease sanctions could face resistance from Congress and U.S. allies. However, one thing is clear: American policy toward Russia may undergo a significant transformation in the coming months, with sanctions remaining at the heart of global diplomatic discussions.
This article was prepared based on materials published by Reuters. The author does not claim authorship of the original text but presents their interpretation of the content for informational purposes.
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