**US Business Group Pushes for Easing Russia Sanctions**
The American Chamber of Commerce in Russia (AmCham Russia) is planning to submit a report to the US government, recommending that some sanctions on Russia be lifted. According to pro-Kremlin outlet RBC, AmCham’s chief, Robert Agee, believes this would help American businesses regain lost market share and reduce operational costs in Russia.
The proposed recommendations focus on easing restrictions in several areas:
* Aviation: lifting restrictions on the supply of spare parts and aircraft maintenance
* Banking: allowing cross-border payments and reducing the cost of doing business
* Investments: lifting the US investment ban imposed in 2022, which currently only allows maintenance operations but prohibits new investments
* Luxury goods: removing restrictions on shipments of high-priced items like cosmetics, perfumes, clothing, and footwear above $300 per unit
AmCham Russia is a business association that represents US companies operating in Russia. It promotes economic engagement despite strained relations between the two countries.
This development comes after US President Donald Trump‘s statement that sanctions on Russia will be lifted “at some point” but not before a peace deal is reached. The US administration has been engaging in direct talks with Moscow on issues like the war in Ukraine, the reopening of embassies, and economic cooperation.
**Background**
Trump extended some existing sanctions on Russia until March 6, 2026, according to a decree published in the Federal Register on February 28. Russian President Vladimir Putin instructed his Cabinet of Ministers on February 21 to prepare for the return of Western companies, saying Russian firms should have “certain advantages” over those re-entering the market.
Sanctions against Russia remain a key tool of international pressure, according to Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister Olha Stefanishyna. She expressed uncertainty regarding the US position but appeared confident in the EU‘s commitment to upholding sanctions.
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