President Trump’s administration is preparing a potential rollback of Russian sanctions, marking a dramatic shift in U.S. foreign policy aimed at ending the Ukrainian conflict and repairing diplomatic relations with Moscow.
At a Glance
- The White House has directed State and Treasury Departments to create a list of sanctions that could be eased on Russia
- Proposal includes potentially lifting restrictions on certain Russian entities, individuals, and oligarchs
- President Trump could issue Executive Orders for some sanctions relief, though congressional approval would be needed in certain cases
- European allies have expressed concern about sanctions relief without Russian commitments toward peace
- The administration has not specified what concessions it expects from Russia in exchange for sanctions relief
America’s Diplomatic Reset with Russia
The Trump administration is preparing plans to potentially ease sanctions against Russia as part of broader efforts to restore diplomatic ties and negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine. According to multiple reports, President Trump has tasked both the State Department and Treasury Department with developing a comprehensive list of sanctions that could be lifted or modified. The initiative represents a fundamental departure from the previous approach of maintaining economic penalties as leverage against Russian aggression in Ukraine.
The proposed sanctions relief would potentially include lifting restrictions on Russian legal entities, individuals, and oligarchs who have been targeted by U.S. measures since Russia’s February 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Importantly, the White House’s request for this sanctions relief list was made before President Trump extended sanctions against Russia for another year, suggesting a nuanced approach that maintains pressure while exploring diplomatic options.
White House Drafting Plan for Potential Russia Sanctions Relief
The White House has directed the State and Treasury Departments to draft a plan for potential sanctions relief for Russia, according to sources familiar with the matter. The proposal, which includes lifting…
— BRICS News (@BRICSinfo) March 3, 2025
Legal Mechanisms and European Concerns
The implementation of sanctions relief would require navigating complex legal and legislative processes. Former Treasury official John Smith outlined the President’s authority in this realm, noting, “Trump could issue an Executive Order allowing his administration to begin easing some sanctions against Russia.” However, Smith clarified that congressional approval would be needed for sanctions on specific organizations designated by Congress itself.
European partners have expressed significant concerns about the potential shift in U.S. policy. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen cautioned against premature sanctions relief, stating that “it is too early to talk about potentially lifting sanctions on Russia.” European leaders have emphasized that any easing of economic penalties should be directly tied to Russia demonstrating genuine commitment to a peaceful resolution with Ukraine, highlighting potential friction between American and European approaches.
Tensions with Ukraine and Strategic Calculations
The sanctions relief proposal follows a reportedly contentious meeting between President Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. During this encounter, Trump allegedly accused Zelenskyy of being “disrespectful” and made pointed statements about American support.
“You have no right to dictate what we should feel. You are gambling with World War III,” said Trump at one point during the meeting. The planned joint news conference was subsequently canceled.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has suggested that Russia’s approach to negotiations could determine the extent of sanctions relief. The administration appears to be weighing the economic leverage that sanctions provide against the potential diplomatic gains from easing them. Despite Russia’s wartime economic adaptations, analysts note Moscow remains vulnerable and in need of Western economic relief, which may provide Washington with significant bargaining power in any negotiations.
Economic Interests and Broader Implications
Economic considerations feature prominently in the developing diplomatic approach. The Kremlin has expressed interest in economic cooperation, particularly regarding rare earth metals, with Putin suggesting potential collaboration with the United States in this sector. Simultaneously, Trump has sought a minerals deal with Ukraine, though discussions have not yet yielded an agreement. This economic focus suggests the administration may be pursuing a pragmatic approach that integrates economic and security interests.
The Kremlin has responded positively to the shift in U.S. foreign policy. Dmitry Peskov, spokesman for Russian President Vladimir Putin, acknowledged that the changes in American diplomatic posture largely align with Moscow’s vision. Meanwhile, European countries have signaled plans to increase their military aid to Ukraine, potentially preparing for reduced American support. This developing situation indicates that Trump’s approach could reshape not only U.S.-Russia relations but also the broader structure of transatlantic security cooperation.
