White House explores potential Russia sanctions relief amid diplomatic push

The United States is considering a plan to ease sanctions on Russia as President Donald Trump moves to restore diplomatic and economic ties with Moscow and push for an end to the war in Ukraine, sources told Reuters.

The White House has directed the State and Treasury departments to draft a list of sanctions that could be lifted, with US officials expected to discuss the proposals with Russian representatives in the coming days.

The plan reportedly includes easing restrictions on select Russian entities and oligarchs.

While officials routinely prepare options for sanctions policies, this direct request highlights the Trump administration’s willingness to negotiate sanctions relief as part of a broader strategy for talks with Moscow. It remains unclear what Washington may seek in return.

Trump has taken a different stance from the previous administration, which imposed tough sanctions on Russia following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. 

Though he had previously threatened harsher penalties if Russian President Vladimir Putin refused to negotiate, Trump officials have recently acknowledged the possibility of easing restrictions.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent suggested in a recent interview that Russia could receive economic relief depending on its approach to negotiations. Trump himself stated on 26 February that sanctions could be lifted “at some point.”

Moscow has signaled interest in economic cooperation, particularly regarding rare earth minerals. However, any formal deal would likely require the US to relax sanctions, raising questions about the future of US policy toward Russia.