We have good results - Zelenskyy highlights sanctions pressure on Russia
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Getty Images)
Sanctions imposed by Ukraine and Western countries have significantly impacted Russia’s defense industry, forcing the shutdown of several military-related production facilities, according to the statement made by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that coordinated sanctions from Ukraine and its Western allies have already forced the closure of several Russian defense-related facilities. In his April 29 address, he emphasized the importance of continued pressure on Russia’s influence networks and military-linked trade operations.
Zelenskyy also noted the preparation of a new decision by the National Security and Defense Council and efforts to synchronize Ukrainian sanctions with European partners. “We already have good results, especially in the closure of Russian production sites tied to their defense sector,” he said.
He revealed plans for further talks with the United States on expanding sanctions, aiming to target Russia’s most sensitive areas to compel it toward diplomacy. Zelenskyy reiterated that a complete and unconditional ceasefire must be the first step toward ending the war.
Commenting on Vladimir Putin’s offer of a three-day truce from May 8-10, Zelensky rejected it as a political gesture, contrasting it with the US-backed proposal for a full 30-day ceasefire already supported by Ukraine. “They’re worried about their parade - and rightly so. But they should be worried that the war is still ongoing. They must end it,” he concluded.
In recent weeks, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed a series of decrees enacting new sanctions approved by the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC). On April 18, Ukraine targeted 20 Russian public figures, including singers, athletes, and actors. Earlier, sanctions were imposed on former Ukrainian officials Serhii Arbuzov and Andrii Klyuyev.
On April 11, Zelenskyy also enforced sanctions against 71 individuals and 18 entities linked to Russian state propaganda, including Viktor Medvedchuk’s project Drugaya Ukraina.
These moves are part of a broader strategy to weaken Russia’s influence operations and its shadow fleet, with a strong new sanctions package in preparation.
