Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that lifting sanctions on Russia without a clear de-escalation agreement would be a significant mistake that could extend the conflict.
Zelenskyy argued that peace cannot be achieved through weakness and called for maintaining strong sanctions, continued support for Ukraine, and sustained pressure on Moscow. He expressed concern that allowing Russia to sell petroleum products would effectively be an investment in the war, rather than a step towards its end.
The Ukrainian president also noted that recent weeks have seen an increase in Russian strikes following the easing of some sanctions on Russian oligarchs. He cited specific attacks on residential buildings and infrastructure across Ukraine, suggesting these actions are a response to Russia’s difficulties on the battlefield.
Zelenskyy indicated that Ukraine is open to reciprocal de-escalation steps, proposing a compromise related to strikes on Russian oil facilities if Russia ceases attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. These remarks followed a reported conversation between the leaders of the US and Russia concerning diesel supplies from Russia.
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Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
