U.S. refuses to extend sanctions against Russia

The U.S. has been largely absent from several working groups set up by allies to combat efforts to circumvent sanctions imposed on the Kremlin, Bloomberg reported.

The U.S. has been unresponsive in one group, which is focused on preventing the Russians from obtaining parts and equipment used to make weapons. Another group, in which the U.S. does not participate, is dedicated to monitoring and enforcing the G7's cap on Russian oil prices.

Some meetings involved junior officials with little decision-making authority.

Sanctions imposed on Russia after its invasion of Ukraine are becoming a major point of tension between Washington and Kiev's European allies as President Donald Trump pushes to end the conflict.

Trump has said he is ready to increase sanctions against Russia if Moscow does not seriously engage in peace talks. European officials said there were few signs of preparations for such a move and it was unclear what actions, if any, the U.S. was taking to combat the circumvention of existing measures.

This month, the Trump administration stepped up its restrictions, allowing some banks to terminate their licenses to make energy payments. In February, the US had already withdrawn from the KleptoCapture working group, which was created by the Biden administration with a broad mandate to enforce measures against Russia.

Photo: Channel 24.