Gallego and Liccardo Demand Answers from Trump Administration on Russia Sanctions Relief

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Congressman Sam Liccardo (CA-16) demanded answers from U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent over recently announced sanctions relief for Russia—an active adversary currently providing Iran with intelligence to target and kill U.S. troops.

 

“The administration’s decision to ease sanctions on Russian oil now allows our enemies to profit from an estimated 145 million barrels of previously blockaded oil,” the letter reads. Meanwhile, Americans face skyrocketing prices at the pump as a direct result of Trump’s unauthorized attack on Iran.

 

The letter continues, “Even more troubling than the rise of oil prices is the lifeline the United States has given to Russia just as U.S. officials confirmed Russia is providing Iranian forces the locations of American military assets, including warships and aircraft. By providing this waiver, you have signaled that the United States will reward attacks on our troops, not deter them.”

 

Hours after the news of Russian-Iranian collaboration surfaced, Secretary Bessent told Fox Business, “We may unsanction other Russian oil.”

 

“Trump just green-lit a waiver so India can keep buying Russian oil, going soft on Putin at a time when Russia is feeding Iran intelligence to target American troops. This is the result of a President who recklessly dragged our country into a war with Iran without a strategy, an endgame, or any clear understanding of the consequences,” said Senator Gallego.

 

“The American people deserve answers on why our warfighting women and men should perish while Russia profits,” said Rep. Liccardo. “This sanctions relief, framed as an effort to calm global energy markets, exposes this Administration’s lack of planning for its Middle East adventurism. Regardless of intent—whether knowingly supporting a country aiding and abetting Iran or merely shooting from the hip to appease the markets—this decision imperils American soldiers. Secretary Bessent must explain this decision and clarify whether this administration puts America—or Russia—first.”

 

Secretary Bessent has until March 14 to respond to the inquiry from Gallego and Liccardo. Both lawmakers sit on committees with jurisdiction over the U.S. Treasury—Banking in the Senate and Financial Services in the House—and plan to push for hearings.