Putin Slams US Sanctions on Russian Oil Giants, Vows Not to Bow to Western Pressure

Moscow: In a major escalation of economic confrontation, the United States on Wednesday imposed sweeping sanctions on Russia’s two largest oil companies – Rosneft and Lukoil – aiming to choke Moscow’s war financing and push for an end to the Ukraine crisis.

Responding sharply, Russian President Vladimir putin on Thursday denounced the move as a “hostile act,” asserting that Moscow would never succumb to external pressure from Washington or any other nation. Putin warned that any attacks deep inside Russian territory would invite a “very serious and overwhelming response,” according to Reuters.

“This is, of course, an attempt to put pressure on Russia,” Putin said. “But no self-respecting country or people will ever make decisions under coercion.” He added that the sanctions would not significantly damage Russia’s economic stability, insisting that the nation’s energy sector remains resilient and optimistic.

Calling the sanctions “unfriendly” with “certain consequences,” the Russian leader emphasized that such actions would only disrupt global energy markets and could drive oil prices higher – a move that could backfire on the United States itself, particularly amid its volatile domestic political climate.

Putin Warns of Escalation Over Long-Range Missile Threats

Addressing reports that Ukraine may receive long-range Tomahawk missiles from the US – capable of striking up to 3,000 km – Putin accused Washington of escalating tensions. “This is an attempt at escalation,” he cautioned. “If such weapons are used to attack Russian territory, the retaliation will be severe, if not overwhelming. They should think carefully.”

Putin’s remarks followed Washington’s decision to impose sanctions just a day after it postponed plans for a second summit between US President Donald Trump and the Russian leader. The announcement coincided with large-scale nuclear drills conducted by Russia, further intensifying geopolitical tensions.

Washington’s Latest Sanctions and Global Fallout

The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the US Department of the Treasury announced that the sanctions would apply to both companies and several of their subsidiaries. These measures represent one of the toughest US moves against Russian energy interests in years.

“These penalties are severe. We hope they won’t last long because they are quite strong against their two major oil firms,” President Trump said, expressing hope that the ongoing war could soon be resolved. “I just felt it was time,” he added.

Rosneft, Russia’s state-controlled energy conglomerate, specializes in oil exploration, refining, and global petroleum exports. Meanwhile, Lukoil – a privately owned multinational – operates across exploration, production, and distribution in Russia and abroad. Together, they represent the backbone of Russia’s global oil dominance.

Trump’s Economic Pressure Campaign Targets Russian Energy Trade

In an effort to cut off Moscow’s revenue streams, President Trump has intensified his economic offensive, imposing steep tariffs on countries that continue to import Russian oil – including major economies like china and India.

Under the new measures, the US has slapped a 100% tariff on Chinese imports in addition to existing duties of 155%, while India faces an unprecedented 50% duty on its exports. Trump’s administration argues that such economic leverage is key to halting the war by reducing Russia’s oil-driven income.

China has threatened to retaliate with its own countermeasures, while India has firmly stated that it will prioritize its citizens’ needs and continue importing Russian crude. However, speculation persists that New Delhi may scale down imports in exchange for reduced tariffs – potentially lowering export duties to around 15–16%.

Global Markets Unsettled as Sanctions Deepen Divide

Despite Trump’s aggressive tariff strategy – pursued relentlessly since the start of his second term – analysts note that the global economy remains strained, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict shows no signs of resolution.

With energy prices soaring and international alliances fracturing, experts warn that the sanctions war could reshape global oil flows, impacting not only Russia but also nations dependent on affordable energy imports.

As Putin stands firm against Western economic coercion, the world watches closely to see whether Washington’s financial warfare will weaken Moscow – or further entrench the global divide between East and West.