The United States has imposed sanctions on Gazprombank, a major Russian financial institution, as it steps up its economic campaign against President Vladimir Putin’s war efforts in Ukraine. Biden made this decision just a few days before leaving the presidency.
The Biden administration had previously decided not to impose sanctions against the bank for fear of turmoil in global energy markets, but in anticipation of pressure from Donald Trump to negotiate a ceasefire between the two sides to weaken Russia and is trying to do everything you can. we can to promote Ukraine.
“Tough times for Russia”
“Today’s sanctions targeting Russia’s largest undesignated bank, as well as dozens of other financial institutions and officials in Russia, will further weaken Russia’s war machine,” said US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. , in a statement. He also said that major action would make it difficult for the Kremlin to avoid US sanctions and fund its military.
The U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control said in a statement that along with about 50 Russian banks linked to the global financial system, about 15 officials were also sanctioned on Thursday. Trump’s return to the White House in January and his promise to quickly end the war have created a new sentiment among Western allies to strengthen Ukraine’s position before any talks.
Also read: Will warn before using hypersonic weapons in Ukraine, says Russian President Putin
The Kremlin said Wednesday that it is willing to discuss a possible ceasefire in Ukraine with Trump. Additionally, Russia has recently stepped up its bombing of Ukraine and even previous rounds of sanctions over the past two and a half years have failed to stop it.
Gazprombank is accused of helping Russia pay for military equipment and supplies for the war in Ukraine. He also reportedly paid Russian soldiers’ salaries, including war bonuses, and helped compensate the families of Russian soldiers killed in fighting.
What did Ukraine say after the US action?
“I thank Joe Biden and his administration for today’s decision to impose financial and banking sanctions targeting Russia’s economy and war chest,” said Ukrainian President Gazprombank, one of Russia’s largest banks, as well as six of its subsidiaries and. More than 50 other financial institutions, the United States has launched a major attack on Putin’s war machine and isolated his bloody and corrupt economy from the global market.
Also read: Russian spokesperson received a call during a press conference
He further said that this comes at a critical time, when Russia is using missiles in a desperate attempt to destroy what is left of international law. Justice demands that the attackers pay the full price for this war.
Zelensky said: “We are deeply grateful for America’s leadership in defense of freedom and the unwavering bipartisan support of Congress, which continues to support strong and decisive sanctions. Together, we must undermine tyranny and protect global security.”
