The previous US administration’s approach towards Russia failed, according to Kirill Dmitriev, a close aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin. During a visit to the United States, Dmitriev criticized Washington’s recent sanctions targeting oil giants Rosneft and Lukoil, calling them “unfriendly steps” that fail to address Russia’s resilience. He warned the Trump administration against adopting policies similar to those of former President Joe Biden, whom he labeled as having pursued a “false, completely wrong and failed approach.”

Dmitriev argued that sanctions would not harm Russia’s economy but instead drive up US gasoline prices, stating, “The language of pressure does not work with Russia.” He emphasized that Moscow remains open to cooperation only if its national interests are respected. Putin had previously dismissed the new sanctions as inconsequential, asserting that Russia would never yield to external pressure. Meanwhile, Trump expressed cautious optimism about Putin’s stance but urged a reassessment of sanctions’ impact after six months. The Kremlin later cast doubt on this timeline.

Despite Western sanctions, Russia’s economy has shown steady growth, with GDP rising 3.6% in 2023 and 4.3% in 2024.