Evian: US President, Donald Trump, on Tuesday urged Russia to strike a deal to end its war in Ukraine, and signaled that he could soon reimpose sanctions on Russian oil exports that were eased to help stabilize global energy markets.
According to Ghana News Agency, Trump made his remarks during talks on Ukraine at the Group of Seven summit on the shores of Lake Geneva in France. He emphasized Russia's significant losses in the conflict and hinted at the possibility of reinstating oil sanctions. "Soon we'll be able to do that because the oil is now flowing," Trump stated, without providing a specific timeline for the potential sanctions.
Trump's statements during the summit of leading industrialized economies marked a notable shift in his approach towards Russia, as he has previously faced criticism for a perceived leniency towards Russian President Vladimir Putin. The summit, attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and other G7 leaders, served as a platform for these crucial discussions.
The global energy landscape was disrupted after attacks by the US and Israel on Iran on February 28, causing the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key channel for global oil shipments. In response, the US temporarily relaxed some sanctions on Russian oil, allowing oil already aboard tankers at sea to be sold. Critics argued that this measure inadvertently supported Russia financially, aiding its war efforts in Ukraine.
US sanctions on Russia's oil sector have been a longstanding measure, with countries and companies conducting business with Russia facing potential repercussions. Amidst these developments, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced new sanctions against Russia. Carney declared the addition of 162 individuals, companies, and vessels to Canada's sanctions list, while Britain introduced 70 new measures targeting Russia's shadow fleet and financial networks.
These announcements by Western leaders aimed to rejuvenate peace efforts that had stalled. Washington's mediation between Moscow and Kiev experienced a slowdown as attention shifted to conflicts involving Iran. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed optimism after discussions with Trump, viewing the US president's statements as a positive signal for peace. Merz noted that leaders agreed on enhancing pressure on Moscow while bolstering support for Ukraine.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted Ukraine's resilience on the front line and emphasized the necessity for allies to intensify their support for Kiev, pointing out emerging signs of strain in Russia.