Putin Warns of “Overwhelming” Response to U.S. Sanctions on Russia

Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday issued a stern warning that Moscow would never bow to pressure from the United States or any foreign power. Speaking to reporters in Moscow, Putin said Russia would deliver an “overwhelming” response to any military strikes deep inside Russian territory. The announcement came a day after U.S. President Donald Trump imposed sanctions on Russia’s two largest oil companies, marking a significant escalation in tensions over Moscow’s war in Ukraine.

The new U.S. sanctions on Russia target major players in the country’s oil industry, a move that Putin described as an “unfriendly act” with consequences, though he insisted it would not seriously affect Russia’s economic well-being. Putin emphasized that the U.S. sanctions on Russia represent an attempt to pressure Moscow but declared that no self-respecting nation or people would make decisions under such coercion.

The Russian president also noted that disruption to Russia’s energy exports—the world’s second-largest oil exporter—could lead to significant increases in global oil prices, including at U.S. gas stations. Putin warned that any further escalation, including attacks on Russian territory using advanced weapons systems, would provoke a serious, if not “overwhelming,” military response. The comments underscore Russia’s firm stance in the face of the U.S. sanctions on Russia and ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Trump’s sanctions on Russia’s oil companies came amid rising global oil prices, which surged nearly 5% following the announcement. The U.S. sanctions on Russia aim to squeeze Kremlin finances and exert pressure on Moscow to reconsider its war in Ukraine. While India has considered reducing Russian imports, it remains unclear whether the country will fully halt purchases of Russian crude.

Putin, speaking with a mix of gravity and humor, recalled past sanctions imposed by the U.S. and joked about potential restrictions on exporting Russian toilets. Despite the levity, the message was clear: Russia views the U.S. sanctions on Russia as an attempt at coercion, which will be met with resilience and strategic countermeasures.

The Russian leader also criticized reports that the Trump administration had lifted certain restrictions on Ukraine’s use of long-range missiles, describing it as an escalation. Putin warned that any use of such weapons against Russian territory would trigger a serious military response, reinforcing Moscow’s stance against foreign pressure.

Analysts say the latest U.S. sanctions on Russia demonstrate Washington’s intent to tighten financial pressure on Moscow, signaling a shift in U.S. policy on the Ukraine conflict. Meanwhile, Putin’s assertive remarks indicate that Russia is prepared to respond decisively to any perceived threats, particularly in the energy sector, which is vital to its economy and global influence.

The escalation highlights the fragility of diplomatic channels between Russia and the United States, with both leaders emphasizing the risks of confrontation. Putin expressed that dialogue remains preferable to confrontation but reiterated that any attack on Russian soil would not go unanswered.