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Trump Sanctions Russia’s Oil Giants as EU Bans Russian LNG

In a major escalation against Moscow, former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced sweeping sanctions on Russia’s top oil companies, while the European Union (EU) imposed a ban on Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG). The dual moves aim to weaken Russia’s energy dominance amid ongoing geopolitical strife.

Trump’s Sanctions Target Rosneft, Gazprom, and Lukoil

The U.S. sanctions directly hit Russia’s energy titans—Rosneft, Gazprom, and Lukoil—restricting their access to Western financing, technology, and markets. Trump emphasized the move as a strike against Putin’s war economy:

“We will no longer allow Putin’s war machine to be fueled by American dollars. These sanctions ensure Russia’s oil elite pay for their government’s aggression.”

Analysts warn the sanctions could disrupt global oil supplies, pushing crude prices higher. However, the Trump administration pledged coordination with OPEC+ to stabilize markets.

EU Cuts Off Russian LNG in Bold Energy Shift

The EU’s LNG ban marks a strategic pivot away from Russian gas, building on earlier pipeline reductions post-Ukraine invasion. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated:

“By cutting Putin’s LNG revenue, we weaken his economy while fast-tracking Europe’s green transition.”

While the EU has diversified suppliers (U.S., Qatar, Norway), some Eastern European nations still rely on Russian LNG. The bloc pledged emergency funds for infrastructure upgrades to ease the transition.

Global Fallout: Market Volatility & Russian Retaliation

• Russia condemned the sanctions as “economic war,” hinting at reciprocal measures like deeper gas cuts to Europe or stronger ties with China/India.
• Oil prices jumped 3%, and European gas futures spiked, raising inflation fears in the West.
• India, a major Russian crude buyer, faces pressure to align with U.S. sanctions while securing energy needs.

What’s Next?

The sanctions intensify the West’s energy war with Russia, but their impact may be blunted by Moscow’s shadow oil fleets and Chinese partnerships. As markets brace for turbulence, the battle for energy control enters a critical phase.

Follow NextMinuteNews for real-time updates.

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