“We’re fairly used to these efforts to undermine European unity, and we know [Trump] likes to deal with leaders one-on-one,” predicted an EU official granted anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly. If Trump grants the exemption, “it may be more of a symbolic setback in terms of the message it sends to Putin and the rest of the world about the lack of resolve to really punish Russia. In reality, it will be harder to achieve.”
After dangling the threat for months, Trump last month finallyimposed additional sanctions on two Russian oil companies when the Kremlin made clear that it still isn’t ready to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine. The president, who has criticized European countries for continuing to import Russian oil and gas, hopes that increased economic pressure will eventually push Moscow into peace talks.
Orban has called Trump’s sanction
Continue Reading on Politico
This preview shows approximately 15% of the article. Read the full story on the publisher's website to support quality journalism.