LONDON: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday called on the United States to expand its sanctions on Russian oil, urging Washington to target the entire sector rather than just two companies — Rosneft and Lukoil. He also renewed his appeal for long-range missiles to strengthen Ukraine’s ability to strike back at Russian forces.
Zelensky made the remarks in London, where he joined a meeting of two dozen European leaders convened by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The talks focused on reinforcing support for Ukraine, bolstering its air defences and power infrastructure as winter nears, and maintaining diplomatic and economic pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“The US decision this week to impose oil sanctions is a big step,” Zelensky said. “But we have to apply pressure not only to Rosneft and Lukoil, but to all Russian oil companies. Only then will we truly weaken Russia’s ability to fund this war.”
The gathering in London also discussed post-ceasefire security guarantees for Ukraine, as European allies continue to pledge long-term military and economic assistance to deter further Russian aggression.
Meanwhile, in a surprising development, Kirill Dmitriev, a top aide to President Putin, confirmed he was currently in the United States for talks “planned a while ago,” reportedly at the invitation of the US side. His visit comes amid heightened diplomatic maneuvering around sanctions and peace negotiations.
