**Further US Sanctions Would Complicate Ukraine Peace Efforts – Kremlin**
The Kremlin has expressed concerns that additional sanctions imposed by the United States could hinder ongoing efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine. Dmitry Peskov, the spokesperson for President Vladimir Putin, made these remarks following the passage of new legislation by the US House of Representatives, which is now awaiting President Donald Trump's signature.
The legislation, which received Senate approval last month, allows for tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian oil and gas. Peskov characterized the sanctions as an “unfriendly” act and indicated that Russia is closely monitoring the situation. He stated, “Of course, the introduction of any additional sanctions by the US will definitely complicate efforts to find a peaceful settlement in Ukraine,” during a press briefing on Thursday.
This legislative measure, named in honor of the late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, had been stalled for several months as Trump pursued diplomatic avenues to address the conflict. Senator Graham was known for his strong support of Ukraine and his advocacy for more stringent sanctions against Russia.
The recent US-mediated diplomatic efforts to resolve the Ukraine conflict had largely come to a halt after Trump initiated military actions against Iran in late February. However, diplomatic discussions resumed earlier this month with visits from White House envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to both Moscow and Kiev.
In addition to targeting Russian energy exports, the new bill also aims at Russia's defense sector and its so-called “shadow fleet” of tankers, which are reportedly used to circumvent existing sanctions. The tariff provisions specifically affect major purchasers of Russian energy, including significant markets like China and India.
India has responded to the proposed sanctions by stating that it is monitoring developments closely and will take “all necessary measures” to safeguard its economic interests and energy security. The Indian government has also cautioned the US that any tariffs imposed on Russian oil purchases could negatively impact bilateral relations.
The legislation has faced opposition from several House Democrats, who argue that it could lead to increased costs for American consumers. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries raised concerns that the bill could grant the president “unfettered authority” to impose tariffs without sufficient oversight.
Moscow has consistently dismissed Western sanctions as illegal and ineffective. President Putin has asserted that Russia has adapted its economy to withstand the impact of these sanctions, despite the imposition of tens of thousands of restrictive measures against the country.
As the situation unfolds, the implications of these sanctions on both the economic landscape and the geopolitical climate remain to be seen. The Kremlin's warnings highlight the delicate balance of international relations and the complexities involved in resolving the conflict in Ukraine.