Bessent Announces Maximum Sanctions Against Iran, Russia

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced a campaign of aggressive sanctions aimed at crippling Iran's economy and pressuring Russia to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine. He emphasized efforts to shut down Iran's oil sector and drone manufacturing capabilities, stating that the goal is to 'make Iran broke again.' Bessent criticized the previous Biden administration's sanctions on Russia as weak, arguing they had allowed the Russian war machine to continue operating. The Trump administration plans to use sanctions decisively to support U.S. interests and encourage negotiations, particularly in Ukraine. Bessent's remarks at the Economic Club of New York reflected a broader strategy to rebalance international trade and strengthen America's economic position. He also indicated that any countries retaliating against U.S. tariffs would face further sanctions.