Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a sharp rebuke to the EU and US, criticizing their perceived hesitancy in imposing further sanctions on Russia. He argues that Western nations should prioritize Ukraine’s immediate needs over their own long-term interests and potential repercussions from stronger sanctions.
The EU has already implemented 18 sanctions packages against Russia since the escalation of the conflict in 2022, and discussions are ongoing regarding additional measures. However, with Donald Trump’s return to the White House, the US has adopted a more cautious approach, seeking a thaw in relations with Moscow. While Trump has expressed willingness to re-impose sanctions if the conflict continues, this hasn’t translated into immediate action.
In a recent Sky News interview, Zelensky deemed this cautious deliberation a dangerous and dishonest waste of time. He stressed the urgency of the situation, urging global leaders to shift their focus from potential future consequences to the immediate crisis in Ukraine. He declared that considering future relations with Russia while Ukraine is under attack is not only dangerous but also morally questionable.
Zelensky further elaborated on the need for stronger US sanctions, highlighting the calls from President Trump for European countries to cut off Russian energy imports and implement tariffs on nations such as China and India, who have been significant buyers of Russian oil. While acknowledging Trump’s perspective, Zelensky emphasized the inability to wait for complete European consensus. He pressed for swift, decisive action from the US, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive sanctions package.
Before any potential settlement, Zelensky also insisted on a clear stance from Trump on sanctions and concrete security guarantees for Ukraine. This underscores the complex political landscape and the high stakes involved in any negotiations. The EU’s reported delay in its next sanctions package while attempting to reconcile Trump’s demands further highlights the internal divisions and challenges in forming a united Western front against Russia.
Meanwhile, Moscow maintains that the existing sanctions have had little impact on its economy and argues that any lasting settlement must include Ukrainian neutrality, demilitarization, and recognition of territorial changes. Security guarantees for Ukraine, according to Russia, are contingent upon a comprehensive and final agreement.
