President Donald Trump has extended a major package of economic sanctions against Russia for an additional year, maintaining restrictions initially imposed over Moscow’s actions in Ukraine and alleged election interference. The decision, announced in a White House memorandum, keeps in place measures targeting key Russian industries, government officials, and oligarchs linked to President Vladimir Putin.

The sanctions, first enacted under the Obama administration and expanded by Congress in 2017, were set to expire but have now been prolonged under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. Trump, who has often expressed a desire for better relations with Moscow, cited ongoing “malign activities” by Russia, including cyberattacks and aggression in Eastern Europe, as justification for the extension.

The move comes amid continued tensions between Washington and Moscow, despite Trump’s past criticisms of sanctions as harmful to diplomacy.

Analysts suggest the decision reflects political pressure from Congress and U.S. allies, who view strong sanctions as essential in countering Russian influence. The Kremlin has condemned the extension, calling it another example of “unfriendly and unjustified” U.S. policy.

With no major thaw in relations expected, the sanctions will continue restricting trade, finance, and energy investments, further straining ties between the two nations.

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