Force short of war
Sanctions are the primary U.S. tool against adversaries when military options are off the table.
In plain English
Sanctions are how the U.S. punishes or pressures foreign governments without using force — cutting them off from money, markets, or technology.
Example
After the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, the U.S. and allies froze Russian central-bank assets and cut major Russian banks off from global payments.
Why it matters
What the term actually changes.
Costs both ways
Sanctions can raise prices at home, strain alliances, and push targeted countries toward alternative financial systems.
How it works
The mechanics, in practice.
Designation
The President (often via Treasury's OFAC) or Congress designates targets — countries, companies, or individuals.
Enforcement
U.S. persons and banks must freeze targeted assets and refuse transactions; violators face fines and prosecution.
Secondary reach
Secondary sanctions threaten foreign firms that do business with targets, extending U.S. leverage worldwide.
Related guide
What is judicial review?
Judicial review is the power American courts use to decide whether a law or government action violates the Constitution.
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