The United States government, according to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, is preparing to implement a “substantial pickup” in sanctions targeting Russia amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Secretary Bessent’s remarks preceded a scheduled White House visit by NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, where discussions are expected to focus on “how to deliver” President Trump’s “vision of peace” regarding the situation.
Earlier in the day, Secretary-General Rutte expressed his belief that President Trump is “the only one who can get this done” with respect to resolving the conflict.
The announcement comes hours after reports of intense Russian drone and missile strikes on Ukraine that resulted in at least seven fatalities, including two children. This also follows President Trump’s decision to shelve plans for a meeting with Vladimir Putin in Budapest.
Secretary Bessent did not elaborate on the specific details of the forthcoming sanctions, stating only that they would be disclosed “either after the close this afternoon or first thing tomorrow morning.”
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