President Donald Trump is set to meet with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Thursday, just as his envoy arrives in Moscow for discussions on a potential ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine.
At the same time, the impact of Trump’s tariff policies is escalating, with new duties imposed on steel and aluminum imports. His administration is also making structural changes to the federal government, marked by recent layoffs at the Department of Education.
Meanwhile, attention shifts to the Senate as lawmakers work to prevent a government shutdown. The House has already passed a temporary funding measure ahead of Friday’s deadline.
U.S. Intensifies Financial Pressure on Russia
The Trump administration has opted to increase financial pressure on Russia by allowing a temporary sanction waiver on Russian energy—originally introduced under Biden—to lapse at midnight on March 12.
A spokesperson for the Treasury Department confirmed the decision, stating that the administration remains committed to ending the conflict and encouraging peace negotiations. The sanctions remain a key tool in these efforts.
This waiver had permitted certain financial transactions with Russian banks related to energy. With its expiration, economic restrictions on Russia are tightening further.