On Oct 23, 2023, Finland’s President Alexander Stubb said U.S. President Trump had opted for the “stick” tactic against Russia, following the Treasury’s new sanctions targeting Rosneft and Lukoil.
President of Finland on New Sanctions for Russia
Alexander Stubb told reporters that Volodymyr Zelenskiy had brought a “surprise bonus” from his recent Washington meeting – the new U.S. sanctions on Russia. “The week before looked unsettling, but we’re moving in the right direction,” Stubb said, noting that Trump “has two negotiation tools: carrot and stick” and that he chose the stick this time.
Stubb: Trump Is Disappointed With Putin’s Promises
Stubb cited Trump’s dissatisfaction with the Russian dictator’s promises made during last week’s phone call. “Trump left the impression the Kremlin would cease the front‑line war,” Stubb said. He added that Russians had made Washington realize that such a cease‑fire would not come, triggering a strong response from Trump.
Stubb highlighted that economic sanctions, though delayed, remain highly effective, warning that Russia’s oil industry funds the war and the killing of people.
USA Imposes New Sanctions on Russia
On Oct 22, 2023, the U.S. Treasury announced a new sanctions package targeting Russia’s biggest oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil, and dozens of subsidiaries.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the goal was to limit financing for Russia’s war machine and weaken President Putin’s regime. “It’s time to end killing and declare an immediate cease‑fire,” Bessent warned, adding that Washington is ready for further measures if Moscow does not change its stance.
