The U.S. State Department states that new sanctions are more effective than designating Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism.

Comprehensive sanctions are more effective in achieving political objectives regarding Russia than designating it as a state sponsor of terrorism. The latest restrictions are particularly impactful for influencing the aggressor nation.

This statement was made by U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, as reported by RBK-Ukraine referencing a press briefing.

"We do not consider this (SST - editor's note) to be the most effective means of achieving existing political goals when discussing Russia," he stated.

According to him, the number of sanctions already imposed by the U.S. against Russia, particularly the recent packages from last week and this week, have tangible effects.

Miller pointed out that following the implementation of restrictions on Russia's energy sector, tankers carrying Russian oil began to be halted worldwide, notably off the coast of China.

The State Department representative also added that on Wednesday, January 15, Russia lost its ability to circumvent previously imposed restrictions.

Moreover, Congress has gained additional authority to ease sanctions against the aggressor in the future.

"These are just the consequences of the latest package. If we look at the overall combined regime of restrictions we have implemented - including sanctions and export controls - we have determined that this will have a greater impact than SST," explained the State Department representative.

Miller also mentioned that recognizing Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism would limit the activities of international humanitarian organizations and create other repercussions that could affect their ability to operate in the region.

New U.S. Sanctions Against Russia

The U.S. Department of the Treasury imposed new extensive sanctions on the Russian energy sector on January 10. These restrictions specifically targeted the largest oil company, Gazprom Neft, and Surgutneftegas, aimed at affecting their profits and Russia's capacity to wage war against Ukraine.

The sanctions will also impact over 180 vessels and dozens of oil traders providing services in the oil industry, insurance companies, and officials in the energy sector.

The new sanctions will cause Russia to lose billions of dollars each month and represent the most extensive measures taken against the aggressor nation in history.