Donald Trump: US-Russia Relations Have Reached the Most Dangerous Level Ever

On Thursday, August 3, the President of the United States stated that relations between the US and Russia have reached the 'most dangerous level in all of history' and blamed Congress for this situation. Donald Trump's remarks came a day after he signed a broad sanctions bill against Russia, Iran, and North Korea. Last week, Congress unanimously approved these sanctions, leaving Trump with no choice but to sign them. These sanctions were passed despite Trump's repeated calls for improved relations with Russia. On Wednesday, despite signing the sanctions bill, he strongly criticized it, complaining that Congress has tied his hands regarding future reductions of sanctions against Moscow, viewing such a bill as an impediment to presidential powers in foreign policy. Moscow has described these sanctions as a 'full-scale trade war' and stated that they have dashed hopes for better relations with the Trump administration. On Thursday, Trump tweeted: 'Our relationship with Russia has reached the most dangerous level in all of history.' He added, 'Thanks to Congress for this, the same people who can't even pass a healthcare bill!' Trump's reference was to the rejection of a healthcare bill in the US Senate, which was voted down 51 to 49. Both the House and Senate are controlled by Republicans. Trump's desire for better relations with Russia has been hindered by US intelligence reports regarding Moscow's interference in the 2016 presidential election. Various congressional committees and a special investigator are currently investigating this issue. Moscow has denied any interference in the US election process, and Trump has also denied any contacts with Russians regarding this matter. Congress imposed sanctions on Russia to punish Moscow for its interference in the elections and for the annexation of Crimea in 2014. Republicans and Democrats, who often disagree on many issues, unanimously supported these sanctions. In this context, Trump has paved the way for sanctions against the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps by signing the congressional bill. The reactions from Russia, Iran, and the European Union to the new sanctions law passed by the US Congress include the US Embassy in Moscow announcing a ban on access to its assets. In response to the new US sanctions, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that the IRGC and Quds Force will be strengthened.