**US Ready to Double Down on Russia Sanctions**
The US is preparing to increase its sanctions against Russia to pressure the Kremlin into ending its war with Ukraine. This was revealed by Keith Kellogg, the US special envoy for Ukraine and Russia.
Kellogg told The New York Post that current US sanctions on Russia are only a “3 on a 10-point scale” in terms of economic pressure. He believes there is room to strengthen them further, particularly those targeting Russia’s energy sector.
**Trump’s Plan**
The US President, Donald Trump, has already gathered his national security team to discuss a coordinated strategy to end the war. Kellogg said that Trump’s administration is focused on a “holistic approach” that combines support for Ukraine with increased pressure on Russia.
Kellogg criticized former President Joe Biden‘s approach of supporting Ukraine “as long as it takes,” saying it was not a real strategy. He emphasized that Trump’s administration has a clear plan to end the war within 100 days of his inauguration.
**Upcoming Visit**
The US special envoy is expected to visit Ukraine later this month for talks with Ukrainian officials. This will be an opportunity for Kellogg to discuss the latest developments in the conflict and to reaffirm the US commitment to supporting Ukraine.
**Sanctions to Increase**
Kellogg confirmed that Washington would not present a specific plan to end the war at the upcoming Munich Security Conference. However, he reiterated Trump’s goal of reaching a “near-term resolution” within 100 days.
The Trump administration is considering whether to secure a temporary ceasefire before negotiating a permanent settlement. Kellogg has suggested using frozen Russian assets to fund American arms supplies to Ukraine.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com