On February 27, 2025, the White House announced the extension of the national emergency concerning Ukraine, which automatically prolongs the sanctions imposed against the Russian Federation. The corresponding document will be published in the US Federal Register.
The statement notes that the sanctions remain in effect due to the “extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States” posed by the actions and policies of the Russian government regarding Ukraine. Specifically, the document states:
“The actions and policies of the Government of the Russian Federation, including its attempted annexation of Crimea and the use of force in Ukraine, continue to undermine democratic processes and institutions in Ukraine, threaten its peace, security, stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.”
Sanctions, first imposed in 2014 following the attempted annexation of Crimea, have been expanded through several executive orders, notably in 2018 and 2022. The latest extension means that restrictions will remain in place at least until March 2026.
The document also specifies that the sanctions include economic restrictions on individuals, companies, and sectors of the Russian economy, as well as financial measures aimed at weakening Moscow’s ability to wage war in Ukraine.
Previously, it was reported that Russian editors of state-affiliated outlets were instructed to emphasize Russian leader Vladimir Putin’s diplomatic efforts while avoiding excessive praise for U.S. President Donald Trump. They were also advised to remain flexible in case talks stalled.