U.S. Ready to Take Strong Action Against Russia — Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent

The United States is poised to take firm measures against Russia over the Ukraine conflict—but success hinges on full cooperation from European partners, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent declared after a meeting with EU sanctions envoy David O’Sullivan on Monday .

In his remarks on NBC’s Meet the Press, Bessent stated: “If the U.S. and the EU can come in, do more sanctions, secondary tariffs on countries that buy Russian oil, the Russian economy will be in full collapse, and that will bring President Putin to the table.” He emphasized, “We are in a race now between how long can the Ukrainian military hold up versus how long can the Russian economy hold up.” .

Bessent also warned that “business as usual has not worked,” stressing: “We are willing to take strong measures against Russia, but our European partners must fully join us in this to be successful.” .

Meanwhile, prominent EU members like Germany and France are pushing for new sanctions targeting Russia’s oil sector and its shadow refining networks .

In sum: At the early September 2025 meeting in Washington, the U.S. made clear that “all options remain on the table”, but unified transatlantic alignment is essential for any effective action.