Zelenskyy says easing of US sanctions on Russian oil could bring $10bln for war

Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday said the easing of US sanctions on Russian oil could provide Russia with about $10 billion, which he warned may be used to finance the war against Ukraine.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, Zelenskyy stressed that international pressure on Russia must continue in order to achieve lasting peace.

“It is important that pressure on Russia over this war continues so that we can achieve real security and sustainable peace. We must overcome the blocking of the 20th sanctions package against Russia. Especially given that the United States has decided to partially ease sanctions on Russian oil stored on tankers at sea. This easing by the United States alone could give Russia around $10 billion for the war. This certainly does not help peace,” Zelenskyy said.

He emphasised that Russia spends revenue from energy exports on weapons.

“Lifting sanctions will strengthen Russia’s position. It spends energy revenues on weapons and all of this then flies against us,” he said.

Zelenskyy noted that he has heard arguments about the need to “stabilise the situation,” but said he does not share that logic.

“The same drones are used against Iran’s neighbours, as well as against Europeans and Americans. Therefore, lifting sanctions so that more drones can fly toward you is, in my opinion, not the right decision,” Zelenskyy added.

The Ukrainian President said sustainable peace cannot be achieved without constant pressure on the aggressor.