Biden Signs Bill Banning Imports of Russian Energy Resources

US President Joe Biden has signed legislation to suspend normal trade relations with Russia and Belarus, which had previously received Congressional approval. Additionally, an import ban on Russian energy resources is now in effect, as reported by RIA Novosti, citing a statement from the White House.

It is emphasized that he signed the laws on "Suspending the Import of Russian Oil" and "Suspending Normal Trade Relations with Russia and Belarus." The latter allows the US administration to impose higher tariffs than those on other countries that are members of the World Trade Organization. These actions have been taken in response to Russia's military operations in Ukraine and aim to increase pressure on Moscow and Minsk.

Earlier, US Department of Defense spokesman John Kirby stated that the Pentagon seeks to avoid further escalation of tensions between Moscow and Washington in the military sphere. He noted that the US is considering Russia's status as a nuclear power while supporting Ukraine.