Biden is set to push for new sanctions against Russia before Trump takes office

President Joe Biden is anticipated to announce new sanctions aimed at Russia‘s economy this week, as reported by a U.S. official. This initiative is part of efforts to strengthen Kyiv’s military capabilities against Moscow prior to Donald Trump’s inauguration.

In conjunction with the sanctions, the Biden administration is preparing to provide $500 million in additional military assistance to Ukraine, which is expected to include air defense missiles, air-to-ground munitions, and support equipment for F-16 fighter jets, according to an unnamed U.S. official.

The impending return of President-elect Donald Trump to the White House on January 20 has raised hopes for a diplomatic solution to the ongoing conflict, while simultaneously instilling concerns in Kyiv that a swift resolution might come with significant concessions. Trump’s advisors have suggested plans that could result in Ukraine relinquishing substantial territories to Russia for the foreseeable future. Biden’s team aims to position Ukraine favorably on the battlefield to enhance their negotiating power with Russia in the coming year.

Details regarding the specific sanctions Biden plans to impose during his final days in office remain unclear, but his aides are reportedly keeping Trump’s team informed about the measures being taken. The official noted that most of the promised weapons and munitions have already been delivered to Ukraine, with the remainder en route, ensuring that Ukraine’s critical munitions stockpiles are in a robust state. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s administration has consistently advocated for increased military support, which Biden has ultimately provided, despite initial hesitations, leading to tense discussions on issues such as Abrams tanks, F-16 fighter jets, and longer-range ATACMS missile systems.

In hindsight, the U.S. official remarked that none of the measures taken have resulted in significant advantages for Ukraine on the battlefield. The official indicated that Ukraine may require security assurances, potentially including NATO membership, to deter any future Russian aggression following peace talks. Russia commenced its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Additionally, U.S. military officials are analyzing North Korean military activities in the context of the Ukraine conflict to better understand how they might respond to any potential conflicts in Asia. It is estimated that thousands of North Korean troops are aiding Russian forces in the war against Ukraine.

Furthermore, the United States is expected to impose additional sanctions on Chinese entities that are believed to be assisting Russia, according to the official. U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen informed Reuters last month that the U.S. continues to aim at diminishing Russia’s oil revenues and its access to foreign resources to sustain the war in Ukraine.