White House seeks plan to ease curbs on Russia

KABUL (Pajhwok): The United States is drawing up a plan to potentially give Russia sanctions relief, Reuters reported on Tuesday.

The initiative is in line with President Donald Trump’s desire to restore ties with Moscow and bring an end to the war in Ukraine.

The White House has directed the State and Treasury departments to draft a list of sanctions that could be eased, allowing US officials to discuss the matter with Russian representatives in the coming days.

This effort is part of the administration’s broader negotiations with Moscow to improve diplomatic and economic relations, sources told Reuters.

Sanctions offices are currently working on a proposal to lift restrictions on select entities and individuals, including some Russian oligarchs, according to the report.

It remains unclear what Washington might seek in return for offering sanctions relief.

As one of the world’s largest oil producers, Russia plays a crucial role in global energy markets. Reducing US sanctions on its energy sector could help prevent a surge in fuel prices.

Following the start of the Ukraine war and Washington’s extensive financial and military support for Kyiv, US-Russia relations reached their lowest point.

In 2022, the Biden administration imposed strict sanctions on Russia, targeting its oil and gas revenues and weakening its ability to finance the war.

However, Trump, who had pledged to swiftly end the conflict in Ukraine, has shifted US policy and initiated direct talks with Moscow.

The process began with a phone call between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin on February 12, followed by meetings between US and Russian officials in Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

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