In a significant shift in policy, the Trump administration has enacted its first Ukraine-related sanctions against Russia during President Trump’s second term, targeting major oil companies Lukoil and Rosneft. This move comes as President Trump reiterates his call for an immediate halt to the ongoing conflict, advocating for a freeze of the current battle lines with Russia retaining control over occupied Ukrainian territories. The U.S. Treasury Department issued the sanctions, signaling a readiness for further action and urging Moscow to agree to a ceasefire.

The decision to impose sanctions follows a period of growing frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin over the war. President Trump had previously held off on new sanctions, expressing hope that he could persuade Putin to make peace. However, recent diplomatic efforts appear to have stalled, leading to the current measures. The sanctions aim to target Russia’s energy sector, a key source of funding for its war effort in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has responded to Trump’s proposal to freeze the conflict, calling it a “good compromise.” However, Zelenskyy expressed skepticism regarding Putin’s willingness to accept such an arrangement. While acknowledging that Ukraine may not be able to regain all occupied territory through military means, Zelenskyy’s public endorsement of a frontline freeze marks a notable shift from Kyiv’s previous stance of reclaiming all lost land.

Meanwhile, a planned summit between President Trump and President Putin in Budapest has been put on hold. The White House stated there are “no plans” for a meeting in the immediate future, citing a lack of significant progress in ceasefire negotiations. This development comes amidst continued Russian attacks on Ukraine, with recent bombardments resulting in casualties and damage to infrastructure, including a kindergarten in Kharkiv.

In addition to the sanctions, President Trump has appeared to rule out providing Ukraine with advanced Tomahawk missiles, citing the lengthy training period required for Ukrainian forces to operate the complex weapon system. This stance contrasts with earlier hopes from Kyiv for such a transfer. The ongoing diplomatic efforts and the imposition of sanctions underscore the complex and evolving dynamics of the Russia-Ukraine war.