US, EU Plan Increased Economic Pressure on Russia to Force Peace Talks

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has stated that Washington is prepared to intensify economic pressure on Russia alongside European partners to force Russian President Vladimir Putin to negotiate peace amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The strategy focuses on coordinated sanctions, including secondary tariffs on countries purchasing Russian oil, aiming to destabilize Russia's economy to compel Moscow to the negotiating table. This escalated response follows one of Russia's largest airstrikes to date, which targeted Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, causing civilian casualties and significant infrastructure damage. European leaders, including Dutch Foreign Minister David van Veen, have echoed calls for increased sanctions and stronger support for Ukraine in response to Russia's intensified attacks. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance have engaged in discussions with European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen to enhance cooperation for these measures. The joint U.S.-EU approach underscores a tactical push to balance Ukraine's defense endurance against Russia's economic resilience, with the goal of hastening a diplomatic resolution.