**Half of Americans Support Sanctions on Countries Buying Russian Oil and Gas, Poll Shows**
A recent poll conducted by YouGov has revealed that around 50% of Americans support imposing sanctions on countries that continue to purchase Russian oil and gas. The survey, which was conducted from June 12-16, found that 24% of respondents “strongly supported” sanctioning Russian energy buyers, while 25% said they “somewhat supported” secondary sanctions against these countries.
The results show a bipartisan support for the idea of imposing sanctions on Russia’s energy exports. However, the division along party lines is stark when it comes to increasing or maintaining U.S. sanctions against Russia. A majority of Americans (59%) support increasing sanctions on Moscow, with 59% identifying as Democrats and only 37% identifying as Republicans.
The poll also highlights the contrast between the prevailing views of the American public and the policies of the Trump administration. President Donald Trump has repeatedly undercut a bipartisan sanctions bill in the U.S. Senate, which aims to slap 500% tariffs on imports from countries that continue to purchase Russian energy products. Trump’s administration has consistently shot down domestic and international appeals to get tough on Moscow.
**Support for Sanctions Across Party Lines**
While there is bipartisan support for imposing sanctions on Russia’s energy exports, the results also show a difference in opinion between Democrats and Republicans when it comes to increasing or maintaining U.S. sanctions against Russia. A majority of Democrats (59%) support increasing sanctions on Moscow, compared to only 37% of Republicans.
On the other hand, a majority of Americans oppose cutting military aid to Ukraine. The survey found that about 50% of respondents opposed reducing military aid to Ukraine, while 26% favored increasing military aid and 23% believed Washington should maintain its current levels of support.
**Contrast Between American Public Opinion and Trump Administration Policies**
The results of the poll illustrate the contrast between the prevailing views of the American public and the policies of the Trump administration. While a majority of Americans support imposing sanctions on Russia’s energy exports, increasing or maintaining U.S. sanctions against Moscow, and providing military aid to Ukraine, President Trump has consistently shot down these ideas.
Trump’s administration has repeatedly undercut efforts to impose tougher sanctions on Russia, despite calls from lawmakers and international partners to take a stronger stance against Moscow. The results of the poll suggest that American public opinion is at odds with the policies pursued by the Trump administration.
**Other Developments**
In other news, Ukrainian manufacturers are set to supply four million drones to the front line this year, according to Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. The Ukrainian army has already received up to 1.5 million drones as of the end of June. Additionally, President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree imposing sanctions on Russian individuals and entities involved in the war against Ukraine.
