Trump Seeks Sole Authority Over Russia Sanctions Policy

The White House announced that President Donald Trump intends to take full personal control over U.S. sanctions policy toward Russia. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized Trump's desire to reserve the authority to impose or lift sanctions solely to himself, underscoring his belief in “strong presidential leadership”.

Leavitt noted Trump’s close coordination with key Senate allies, including Senator Lindsey Graham, and framed his involvement as consistent with his role as Commander-in-Chief. She stated that Trump has been "deeply involved" in the conflict from the beginning and intends to shape the U.S. approach to Russia based on his own judgment rather than delegating the matter to Congress or other institutions.