On September 16, political analyst and consultant Maksym Nesvitailov expressed cautious optimism about the ability of the US and Europe to make decisions that could influence the course of the war. The US Treasury Secretary's statement on possibly ending the war within 60-90 days if strict secondary sanctions are imposed on buyers of Russian oil has sparked discussion about Europe's readiness to join such actions.
Nesvitailov notes that Europe is unlikely to act independently without assurances of US support, especially given the unpredictability of Donald Trump's administration. Statements by Senator Lindsey Graham, promising consequences for Hungary and Slovakia if they continue buying Russian oil, indicate a US tendency towards more decisive sanctions.
The expert analyzes the prospects for strengthening the EU's 19th sanctions package and imposing tariffs on buyers of Russian oil and gas. The positions of Hungary and Slovakia and their reaction to US pressure remain key questions. The prospect of coordinated US-European actions could significantly affect Russia and hasten the end of the war, but doubts remain about reliable partnership and trust.
Nesvitailov encourages following further developments and discussing possible progress in sanctions and international policy concerning energy trade with Russia.
