ASSESSMENTS

The U.S. Prepares to Shine an Unwelcome Light on Russian Oligarchs

Jan 27, 2018 | 16:55 GMT

Women walk near the entrance to the Kremlin in March 2017.

Women walk near the entrance to the Kremlin. On Jan. 29, the U.S. Treasury Department will begin releasing a series of reports detailing options to increase pressure on Russia through expanded sanctions.

(SPENCER PLATT/Getty Images)

Highlights

The United States is mulling its options to increase pressure on Russia over its reported election meddling and disinformation campaigns. Moscow is preparing for expanded sanctions by attempting to insulate its government, companies and elites.
While Russia has mostly shielded itself from sanctions affecting its ability to issue sovereign debt, the possible targeting of its most powerful and wealthy citizens, even if not implemented, will ripple deep into Russia’s core.
As the poverty rate in Russia expands, the population's dissatisfaction with widespread corruption and the exorbitant wealth held by the elites is growing. A list detailing that wealth could spark pushback on the Kremlin during this pivotal election year.

The United States has for years used economic sanctions as a cudgel against Russia for various perceived transgressions, including its actions in Crimea and Ukraine. They not only have targeted sectors vital to the Russian economy, contributing to its recession, but they also hit individuals in the upper echelons of Kremlin leadership. Now, Russian leaders are bracing for the possibility of even more sanctions, these stemming from allegations that Moscow interfered in the 2016 U.S. elections....

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