Biden announces ban on all Russian energy imports over Ukraine invasion; move likely to raise prices

WASHINGTON – President Joe Biden announced a ban on the U.S. import of all Russian energy products to target "the main artery of Russia's economy" in the latest effort to ratchet up sanctions over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

"Russian oil will no longer be accepted at U.S. ports," the president said in remarks Tuesday at the White House. "We will not be part of subsidizing Putin's war."

Though Biden said the move would deal a "powerful blow to Putin's war machine," he warned the decision would be felt at home, where Americans are already seeing prices rise at the gas pump.

Biden said he made the decision in consultation with European allies but added they may not be in a position to join the U.S. in banning Russian energy imports. He said the U.S. is working closely with European allies to develop a "long-term strategy" to reduce their dependence on Russian energy.

The ban extends to any new purchases of Russian crude oil, certain petroleum products, liquefied natural gas and coal, a senior administration official told reporters on condition of anonymity in order to discuss details of the action.

The official said the ban takes effect immediately but will allow a 45-day period to wind down purchases already under contract.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Biden announces ban on all Russian energy imports over Ukraine invasion