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Key Points

Zelenskyy praised the EU's latest sanctions on Russia, calling them a crucial step toward peace. He emphasized the need to target Russia's oil shipping and military supply chains. Talks are already underway for an 18th sanctions package focusing on energy and finance. The Ukrainian leader stressed continued coordination with European allies to maximize pressure on Moscow.

Key Points: Zelenskyy Praises EU Sanctions on Russia as Step Toward Peace

  • Zelenskyy thanks von der Leyen for sanctions targeting Russia's tanker fleet
  • EU measures also address shadow oil shipping networks
  • Discussions underway for 18th sanctions package
  • Focus on Russian energy trade and financial systems
2 min read

Zelenskyy calls EU sanctions against Russia a step in right direction

Zelenskyy welcomes EU's 17th sanctions package targeting Russia's tanker fleet and military industry, urging further pressure for peace.

"The more pressure there is on Russia, the more incentives Moscow will have to move toward genuine peace. – Volodymyr Zelenskyy"

Kyiv, May 20

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the European Union's 17th package of sanctions against Russia, calling it "a step in the right direction" and urging continued pressure on Russia.

Zelenskyy thanked European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and stressed the importance of targeting Russia's tanker fleet as well as the schemes Russia uses to build up its military industry.

Sharing a post on X, Zelenskyy wrote, "I thanked President of the European Commission @vonderLeyen and the entire EU for the 17th sanctions package. It is a step in the right direction. It is important to impose tough restrictions on Russia's tanker fleet, which serves to finance killings, as well as on all the schemes Russia uses to build up its military industry. The more pressure there is on Russia, the more incentives Moscow will have to move toward genuine peace."

Zelenskyy also confirmed discussions on the 18th sanctions package, emphasising the need to target Russia's energy trade and financial systems to promote peace.

"Ursula and I also discussed preparations for the EU's 18th sanctions package. Russian oil, energy trade infrastructure, banks, and financial schemes -- these are the areas that hurt Russia the most, and therefore contribute the most to peace. I thank everyone who advocates for tougher sanctions and makes strong decisions. We also discussed in detail yesterday's conversation with President Trump and our joint diplomatic work with partners. Europe must be on board, and we are coordinating every step as closely as possible," the post added.

https://x.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1924812039400079367

The European Council said in a press release, "Today's 17th package is part of an even broader set of EU measures also targeting Russia's hybrid activities, domestic violations of human rights and the use of riot control agents by Russian forces in Ukraine, under three other sanctions regimes."

In addition, the EU also imposed individual sanctions (asset freeze and prohibition to make funds available) targeting the shadow fleet ecosystem, namely on actors enabling the operation of the shadow fleet. These measures cover shipping companies responsible for the transportation of crude oil and oil products by sea and engaging in dangerous practices at sea while transporting Russian oil, including entities from the United Arab Emirates, Turkey and Hong Kong. The list also includes one important insurer of the Russian oil shipping industry.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
While sanctions are necessary, India must maintain its strategic autonomy. We have our own national interests to protect, especially regarding energy security. The West can't expect us to blindly follow their lead when we have millions to feed. 🇮🇳
P
Priya M.
Ukraine's suffering is heartbreaking 💔. But I wonder if these sanctions will really change Putin's mind or just make ordinary Russians suffer more? Maybe Europe should focus more on diplomatic solutions rather than just economic pressure.
A
Amit S.
Interesting how UAE and Turkey are being targeted too. Shows how complex global trade networks are. India has handled this situation quite smartly - maintaining ties with both sides while protecting our interests. Foreign policy isn't black and white!
N
Neha T.
The West has double standards. They sanction Russia but keep buying Russian oil through middlemen. Meanwhile they lecture us about buying cheap oil for our people. Hypocrisy much? At least India is honest about its energy needs.
V
Vikram J.
We should learn from this situation - India needs to become self-reliant in defense and energy. Look at how Russia is still standing despite years of sanctions. Atmanirbhar Bharat is the only way forward for true strategic independence.

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