Trump Extends Russia Sanctions Originally Imposed by Biden

U.S. President Donald Trump has extended sanctions on Russia for another 12 months. The sanctions, originally issued by former President Joe Biden, were instituted under a State of Emergency declaration in April 2021 and were significantly expanded in 2022 after Russia began its "Special Military Operation."

The extension was posted to the Federal Register with the statement: “Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Specified Harmful Foreign Activities of the Government of the Russian Federation.”

This extension comes as Trump attempts to revive negotiations with Russia over the Ukraine conflict, amid reported divisions within his inner circle on how best to proceed. Trump has also reportedly expressed frustration over the lack of progress in peace talks.

Trump’s Special Envoy, Steve Witkoff, visited Moscow on Friday and met with Russian President Vladimir Putin for the third time in three months. Later that day, reports emerged of disagreements between Witkoff and Keith Kellogg, Trump’s envoy to Ukraine. Witkoff is said to have acknowledged the need to make concessions to Russia, while Kellogg reportedly supports the European plan calling for a ceasefire and the introduction of European peacekeeping forces.

Since taking office, Trump has repeatedly threatened further sanctions on Russia. Recently, Senator Lindsey Graham introduced a bill that would impose secondary sanctions on countries that purchase Russian oil and tighten existing measures.

There appears to be a belief among some hardliners within the Trump administration that additional sanctions could pressure Russia into accepting U.S. demands. However, Moscow appears largely unfazed by these threats.

Last week, Kirill Dmitriev—Putin’s appointed envoy to the U.S.—told CNN in an interview, while visiting the U.S. to meet with Witkoff, that Russia is not concerned about whether sanctions are lifted.