Zelenskyy outlines real objective behind easing US sanctions on Russia
Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy (photo: Getty Images)
Easing or lifting international sanctions against Russia is the wrong approach to building dialogue with Moscow, as it only helps its defense industry and military, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
Consequences of easing restrictions
The head of state stressed that any steps toward lifting restrictions on Russia effectively amount to direct support for Russian forces by aiding its military-industrial complex.
Moreover, the easing of sanctions has produced no positive results for global markets.
"After some sanctions were eased, we did not see any surprises such as lower global prices for oil, gas, or diesel fuel. After all, Russian oil accounts for only 5% of global supply. How could that have changed anything?" the president said.
Why concessions to Kremlin are wrong
Zelenskyy notes that attempts to soften sanctions pressure are intended to facilitate dialogue with Moscow, but such an approach is fundamentally flawed. Russian leadership is incapable of responding constructively to diplomatic arguments.
"They do not understand words or empathy and see them as signs of weakness. We must be strong and impose more sanctions on them," the Ukrainian leader stressed.
Other remarks by Zelenskyy
Earlier, the president had emphasized that ending the regular strikes at Ukrainian cities requires a united international response and continued pressure on Russia.
According to him, world leaders should intensify economic restrictions and expand long-range sanctions.
Zelenskyy also stated that Ukraine tries to intercept Russian drones heading toward Poland and the Baltic states. By launching drones in such attacks, the Kremlin is not only striking Ukraine but also testing the air defenses of NATO countries and gauging the alliance's response to provocations.
