US President Donald Trump has ordered the continuation of the national emergency regarding Ukraine, originally declared in 2014 following Russia’s aggression.
The associated sanctions against Russia will also remain in effect for another year, extending until 6 March 2026. The executive order formalising this decision is set for publication in the US Federal Register on 28 February 2025.
The national emergency was first declared on 6 March 2014 by Executive Order 13660 under the administration of then-President Barack Obama. It was introduced in response to actions that were deemed to undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty, democratic processes, and territorial integrity. Since then, successive US presidents have expanded and reinforced these measures.
A Series of Executive Orders and Sanctions
Over the years, additional executive orders have broadened the scope of the national emergency:
- Executive Order 13661 (16 March 2014) expanded the emergency, highlighting the Russian government’s direct threat to Ukraine’s stability.
- Executive Order 13662 (20 March 2014) addressed Russia’s annexation of Crimea and its military actions in Ukraine.
- Executive Order 13685 (19 December 2014) introduced further measures targeting Russian activities in Crimea.
- Executive Order 13849 (20 September 2018) reinforced sanctions against Russia for continued aggression.
- Executive Order 14065 (21 February 2022) expanded sanctions in response to Russia’s recognition of the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics (L/DNR).
Each of these orders has contributed to the broad framework of restrictions targeting Russian individuals, entities, and operations connected to Ukraine.
Continued Threats to US National Security and Foreign Policy
The latest extension states that the policies and actions addressed in these executive orders “continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat” to US national security and foreign policy. Trump’s order reiterates that Russia’s military presence in Ukraine, occupation of Crimea, and support for separatist regions necessitate the continuation of emergency measures and sanctions.
This decision follows a similar move in 2024 when then-President Joe Biden extended the same emergency measures. By maintaining the status quo, Trump signals that the US remains committed to opposing Russia’s actions in Ukraine through economic and diplomatic pressure.
Legislative and Diplomatic Implications
Under the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), a national emergency automatically expires after one year unless the president formally extends it. Trump’s renewal ensures that the legal basis for sanctions and other restrictive measures remains intact for at least another year.
The extension will be transmitted to Congress, where it is expected to reinforce bipartisan support for US policies countering Russian aggression. It also serves as a signal to allies within NATO and the European Union of Washington’s continued commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Broader Context
The extension of the national emergency occurs amid ongoing hostilities in Ukraine, with Russia continuing its military operations despite international sanctions and diplomatic efforts. The situation remains a focal point in transatlantic security discussions, and the US is expected to coordinate its policies with European allies.
While this renewal does not introduce new sanctions, it ensures the continued enforcement of existing restrictions and allows for additional measures if necessary. This move aligns with broader Western efforts to isolate Russia diplomatically and economically in response to its actions in Ukraine.
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