There’s a growing debate in the U.S. about whether to put tougher economic pressure on Russia. Some European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy want U.S. President Donald Trump to increase sanctions on the Kremlin. But U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio says it’s not that simple.
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In an interview, Rubio explained that if the U.S. adds too many new sanctions, it might lose the chance to talk to Russia about a peace deal.
“If we just crush them with more sanctions, we might not be able to have peace talks with them anymore,” Rubio said.
Rubio made it clear that the U.S. hasn’t removed any existing sanctions on Russia. However, the current administration wants to keep some flexibility so that they can continue diplomatic efforts.
“We want to keep talking. If there’s a chance to help bring Russia to the table for peace, we’re going to take it,” he added.
A 500% Tariff?
At the same time, the White House is working with Senator Lindsey Graham on a new law. This law would place a 500% tariff on goods from countries that still buy oil, gas, uranium, and other products from Russia—unless Russia returns to peace negotiations.
Rubio said they are discussing how to write this law in a way that allows the president to still make decisions on sanctions while keeping current sanctions in place.
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Russia Still Focused on the Battlefield
Rubio also shared thoughts on the war in Ukraine. He believes Russia is still trying to win through military action instead of peace talks.
“Russia is trying to get through war what they couldn’t get through negotiations—like control over certain areas,” he explained.
Rubio added that Russia may be underestimating how difficult it will be to win those goals through fighting.
