In a recent high-profile lobbying effort, Kirill Dmitriev, a key financier of the Kremlin, sought to dismantle US oil sanctions during a trip to Washington, reportedly on orders from Vladimir Putin. However, his attempts met significant resistance from the Trump administration, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent labeling him a “Russian propagandist.”
The imposition of sanctions has caused a substantial loss in market value for Russia’s major oil companies, Lukoil and Rosneft, totaling nearly $11.5 billion. Dmitriev’s efforts included interviews with major US networks, where he faced challenges regarding Russia’s military actions against civilian targets, often reverting to Kremlin talking points while denying accountability for specific attacks, such as a recent strike on a kindergarten.
Critics highlighted Dmitriev’s access as a misuse of diplomatic concessions, arguing it was exploited to promote disinformation regarding documented war crimes. As his charm offensive failed, Dmitriev even diverted to commenting on British politics during his return flight, indicating a broader disconnect from his initial mission. Ultimately, the rejection of his overtures underscores the effectiveness of the current US sanctions and the Kremlin’s desperation to counter economic pressures.
