Benjamin Hilgenstock on Trump’s New Sanctions Threat Over Russian Oil
In a recent Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty article, experts analyzed U.S. President Donald Trump’s call for NATO members to halt imports of Russian crude oil as a condition for Washington to impose tougher sanctions on Moscow. The proposal would primarily impact Turkey, Hungary, and Slovakia, the only NATO countries still purchasing Russian oil.
“Trump’s threats have so far been directed mostly at India and, to some extent, China. Turkey was never really part of that conversation, so this marks an interesting new development,” said Benjamin Hilgenstock, Senior Economist at the KSE Institute.
Turkey’s Crucial Role in Russian Oil Imports
The report underscores that Turkey is now the world’s third-largest importer of Russian crude, benefiting from steep price discounts and profitable refining operations that supply European markets. However, analysts warn that Ankara’s deep energy dependence on Moscow, coupled with its delicate political balancing act between Russia and the United States, could make compliance with Trump’s demands especially challenging.
Hilgenstock noted that cutting off Turkey’s imports would likely force Russia to offer even deeper discounts to attract alternative buyers, further straining its already fragile economy. Still, he emphasized that the political costs for NATO members to take such a step remain significant.
Further Reading
To explore Benjamin Hilgenstock’s full commentary and gain deeper insight into Trump’s evolving sanctions strategy against Russia, read the full article.
Energy exports remain central to Russia’s economy, serving as a key tool of geopolitical leverage. Sanctions on Russia’s energy sector aim to curb state revenues and reduce its influence over dependent nations. Discover the latest data and research on Russia sanctions and energy policy in the Sanctions Portal Evidence Base.
For more expert insights and economic analysis from KSE Institute, visit the KSE Institute homepage.
