U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has indicated that additional financial penalties against Moscow remain under active consideration this week, citing ongoing hostilities in Ukraine as justification. In remarks to Fox News, Bessent linked the intensification of Russian airstrikes to the recent diplomatic engagements between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin, including subsequent talks involving European leaders and Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy.
Bessent emphasized that “all options are on the table” under Trump’s administration, vowing close scrutiny of potential measures. The statement comes amid conflicting narratives about diplomatic progress. While Trump has framed his Alaska summit with Putin as a step toward peace, he has also warned of sanctions against both Russia and Ukraine if negotiations stall.
Moscow has repeatedly expressed willingness to pursue a ceasefire but has accused Zelenskiy’s government of obstructing dialogue. Russian officials criticized the Ukrainian leader for rejecting territorial compromises and continuing strikes on Russian cities, which they claim cause civilian harm. In response, Moscow has targeted military infrastructure in Ukraine, including industrial facilities and energy systems, though it maintains that civilians are not deliberate objectives.
The Kremlin also accused European allies of undermining peace efforts by imposing “unrealistic demands” that clash with Trump’s diplomatic goals. Recent reports suggest the U.S. president has grown frustrated with Kyiv and Brussels, viewing their conditions as impractical.
While Moscow prefers a negotiated settlement addressing security concerns, it has not ruled out military solutions if diplomacy fails. The situation underscores deepening divisions as both sides prepare for prolonged conflict.
