As part of discussions regarding a peaceful resolution to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the administration of US President Donald Trump is considering the possibility of lifting sanctions imposed on the Russian pipeline “Nord Stream 2,” as well as on other Russian assets in Europe. However, there are differing opinions on this matter within the White House.
This is reported by Finway
According to information obtained from several sources familiar with the situation, it is important to note that sanctions on “Nord Stream 2” were introduced during Trump’s first term. His successor, Joe Biden, initially lifted them, but with the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, the sanctions were reinstated.
“This is not true. None of us have had any discussions about lifting sanctions on Russia as part of a peace agreement with Ukraine,” said Marco Rubio in a statement.
This move could lead to significant diplomatic changes for Russia and represent a serious concession from Trump. The main proponent of lifting the sanctions is White House Special Representative Steve Vitkoff, who has already tasked his team with compiling a list of all sanctions imposed on Russia’s energy sector. However, some high-ranking officials believe that Russia may have misled Vitkoff regarding the actual economic capabilities of the US in the context of restoring business ties with Russia.
Vitkoff, along with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, issued a joint statement denying reports of discussions about easing sanctions, calling them “completely fabricated and irresponsible.” Rubio also noted on his microblog that this information is not accurate.
It is worth recalling that during his first term, Trump repeatedly criticized “Nord Stream” and accused Biden of insufficient pressure on the project in 2021, despite the same sanctions being reintroduced later.
Some media sources report that the idea of lifting sanctions has not yet gained widespread support within the White House. Marco Rubio has also attempted to prevent this process. Opponents of this idea include the head of the White House Energy Dominance Council and Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum.
According to a source speaking to journalists, there is an ongoing internal discussion within the White House among representatives of the energy sector: “Burgum aims to develop markets for American LNG, while Vitkoff intends to strengthen ties with Russia.” He emphasized that restoring Russia’s status as a major supplier of energy resources in Europe would be “a bloodbath for American producers.”