What exception did the USA make for Russia?

Kevin Hassett, Director of the White House National Economic Council, announced on ABC News that the US has decided to refrain from imposing new trade tariffs on Russia.

"Obviously, negotiations are underway with Russia and Ukraine, and I think the president has decided not to mix these two issues. This doesn't mean that Russia will be treated differently in the future than other countries," explained the administration representative.

According to Hassett, the head of state is focused on the peace process between Moscow and Kyiv, as its outcome directly affects "thousands and thousands of human lives." The White House representative cited this factor as the reason for Donald Trump's decision not to complicate current diplomatic efforts by imposing economic sanctions.

Earlier, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated in an interview with Fox News that tariffs were not imposed because Russian products are not supplied to the US. He added that US sanctions against Russia are in effect, which effectively excludes trade with Moscow.