Bessent Says No Russia Economic Relief Until Ukraine War Ends
U.S. sanctions on Russia stay in place as Bessent rejects relief talks over Ukraine See how G20 tensions and limited U.S.-Russia contact could shape next moves
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent reportedly told Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov that Washington will not offer sanctions relief or new economic agreements while the war in Ukraine continues.
The two officials met on the sidelines of a G20 finance ministers meeting in Asheville, North Carolina. The discussion came as Siluanov attended the summit in person for the first time since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, drawing objections from some European leaders.
The article says the talks reflected a contrast between the United States and Europe: Washington appears open to limited diplomatic contact with Moscow, while European governments are still working to isolate Russia and expand sanctions. The Russian finance ministry said the meeting also covered financial cooperation within the G20 framework.