Time to increase sanctions — they are proving effective

Russian President Vladimir Putin is in a rush to defeat Ukraine due to the looming economic crisis facing the Kremlin.

Their forces have attacked Ukrainian positions recklessly, reflecting the desperation of a country facing dire economic conditions with casualties estimated at over 1,500 per day.

The Trump administration will focus on Russia’s military progress and economic deterioration to assess the war.

President-elect Donald Trump aims to end the war, but Putin, as the lawless aggressor, should not be bailed out, especially as economic sanctions against Russia are showing effectiveness.

Russia’s revenues from oil and gas exports have decreased significantly, leading to rising military spending and deficits as foreign funding is cut off due to Western sanctions.

The financial situation in Russia is dire, with declining reserves and rising inflation, prompting the sale of assets and reserves to cover budget shortfalls.

The US and its European allies should continue to squeeze the Russian economy to force Putin into a difficult choice: raise taxes and cut social services or risk hyperinflation to continue fighting Ukraine. These measures will weaken public support for the war and Putin’s regime.

Thomas Duesterberg is a senior fellow at Hudson Institute, where Peter Rough directs the Center on Europe and Eurasia.