As part of energy deals, Europe has paid Russia more money than it has transferred to Ukraine, and continues to consume Russian fuel.
He strongly criticised European countries for continuing to purchase Russian oil and gas whilst simultaneously supporting Ukraine.
According to Bessent, the US imported $4 billion’s worth of Russian goods in the first six months of this year, including $1.8 billion’s worth of fertilisers, whilst European countries imported more than ten times that amount.
“The Europeans have given Russia more money than they have given the Ukrainians. And they continue to consume Russian energy resources,” said the US Treasury Secretary. He pointed out that Washington had not lifted anti-Russian sanctions; the restrictions had been eased solely in relation to the supply of diesel fuel.
He also stated that this spring the US administration had approached its European allies with a request for coordinated action against countries purchasing Russian energy resources.
“In the spring, I asked our European allies to join us in imposing secondary tariffs on China and India. They refused. So why should the US bear the burden?” said Bessent.
He added that Washington could resume cooperation with its European partners by confirming that US President Donald Trump wants to put an end to the Russian-Ukrainian conflict.
