U.S. President Donald Trump expressed support for a new bipartisan bill aimed at strengthening sanctions against the Russian Federation, particularly in the area of its oil and gas revenues. The document provides the American leader with additional tools to influence countries that purchase cheap Russian oil, thereby funding Russia’s war against Ukraine. The bill also allows for sanctions against states that import hydrocarbons from Russia, including China, India, and Brazil. It is expected that the U.S. Congress will consider this bill as early as next week.
This is reported by Finway
U.S. Measures Regarding Sanctioned Tankers
Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Justice is preparing criminal charges against the crew members of the oil tanker Marinera. This vessel, flying the Russian flag, was detained by U.S. military forces in the Atlantic Ocean on suspicion of violating American sanctions. Recently, the U.S. has also arrested another tanker from the so-called “shadow fleet” named Sophia. Currently, the department is also tracking the movements of several other oil vessels that may be subject to similar measures.
White House Reaction and Vice President’s Position
The White House emphasized that Donald Trump does not intend to stop at what has been achieved and is prepared to detain sanctioned tankers, even if this threatens to escalate tensions in relations with the Russian Federation and China.
“Trump is not afraid to continue detaining sanctioned tankers, despite concerns that this may heighten tensions with Russia and China.”
U.S. Vice President Jay D. Vance also stated that the tanker Marinera was merely masquerading as a Russian vessel to evade accountability for violating sanctions restrictions.