US to Apply Fresh Sanctions on Russia
US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen recently made some significant announcements during a press conference at the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank.
Yellen stated that the United States is taking measures to ensure that Russia avoids sanctions. In fact, she mentioned that “strong new sanctions” targeting Russia, including intermediaries in third countries that provide military-critical input to Russia, will be announced within the next week.
In response to recent conflicts in the Middle East, Yellen highlighted that the US is using all available tools. Following Iran’s attack on Israel earlier in the month, additional steps were taken to increase pressure on Iran, including imposing sanctions targeting Iran’s revenues from the energy sector.
The focus is on increasing stability in the region, as Yellen explained that efforts are being made to ensure the flow of aid to Gaza. Sanctions have also been imposed on extremist Israeli settlers, and pressure is being placed on Israel to maintain vital banking relations for Palestinian banks.
Furthermore, Yellen expressed expectations for the Israeli cabinet to extend exemptions for banks in the region to maintain correspondent banking relationships by the end of the month. This move is intended to support economic stability in the West Bank.
Overall, Yellen’s statements shed light on the US government’s ongoing efforts to address geopolitical challenges and promote stability in the Middle East region.
