US special envoy: Sanctions package against Russia poised for approval

The United States has prepared a new sanctions package targeting Russia, with both Congress and the White House ready to approve the measures, according to Keith Kellogg, the US Special Representative for Ukraine and Russia.

In an interview with US media, Kellogg confirmed that the sanctions, dubbed the “Russian Sanctions Act 2025,” are finalised and awaiting implementation, Caliber.Az reports.

He said, "I talked to Lindsey Graham last weekend, and I believe the sanctions are ready; they are ready to go. They called 'The Russian Sanctions Act 2025.' And I think Graham has got them set and ready to drop."

The sanctions are described as particularly severe, including a proposed 500% tariff on imports to the United States from countries that buy Russian oil, petroleum products, natural gas, or uranium. Kellogg emphasised the focus on Russia’s energy sector, stating, "Russia is a petrostate. A lot of their money comes from the petrochemicals. That's what we are really going after."

The package also includes a prohibition on US citizens purchasing Russian sovereign debt, aiming to intensify economic pressure on Moscow.

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham introduced the draft sanctions earlier in May, signalling strong bipartisan support for tougher measures against Russia. The sanctions are intended to compel Russian President Vladimir Putin to enter meaningful negotiations to end the war in Ukraine.

US President Donald Trump has pledged to approve the sanctions if Russia fails to make progress in peace talks held in Istanbul. However, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has cautioned against rushing the sanctions to avoid jeopardising ongoing negotiations, suggesting a more measured approach.

In a parallel development, France has proposed closer coordination with the US on sanction policy to increase pressure on Russia to end the conflict.

By Aghakazim Guliyev