Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned a US decision to extend the period during which Russia is allowed to sell oil despite Western sanctions. This move means countries can purchase Russian oil and petroleum products already loaded on vessels at sea until 16 May. The US argues that the waiver is meant to ease the energy supply crunch sparked by the US-Israel war with Iran. However, Zelensky stated, 'every dollar paid for Russian oil is money for the war' in Ukraine, emphasizing that the ongoing sanctions were imposed after Russia's invasion in February 2022. Zelensky noted that Russia has over 110 tankers from its shadow fleet carrying substantial amounts of oil, potentially allowing it to generate around $10 billion, which he insists directly funds its military aggression against Ukraine. Despite attacks on both sides, a stalemate persists in the conflict, with Russia controlling approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory.
Zelensky Criticizes US for Extending Waiver on Russian Oil Sanctions
Zelensky Criticizes US for Extending Waiver on Russian Oil Sanctions
Ukraine's President Zelensky expresses strong condemnation of the US decision to extend a waiver allowing Russian oil sales despite ongoing sanctions, arguing that it funds the war against Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned the US's recent decision to extend a waiver that allows for the purchase of Russian oil, stating that money spent on Russian oil contributes to the war against Ukraine. The extension allows Russian oil to be sold from vessels until May 16, a move the US justified as necessary to mitigate energy supply issues due to the US-Israel conflict with Iran. Zelensky's remarks highlight concerns that Russia could generate significant revenue from oil sales used to finance military operations in Ukraine.
