Trump imposed Russia sanctions after missile strike on Ukrainian kindergarten – WSJ

U.S. President Donald Trump decided to impose the first sanctions of his second term on Russia in response to new missile strikes on Ukraine, including an attack on a kindergarten in Kharkiv, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing White House sources.

The report said Trump grew frustrated with what he saw as deliberate stalling by President Vladimir Putin despite earlier diplomatic contacts. Footage of destruction and civilian casualties reportedly prompted Trump to act.

He signed a mid-level sanctions package targeting oil giants Rosneft and Lukoil, with support from Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Former U.S. envoy Kurt Volker said Trump was “disappointed that Putin failed to support his roadmap,” but has left room for a future deal.

Following the sanctions, Indian and Chinese refineries halted Russian oil imports, and Brent crude rose 7% over the week.