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Ukraine president welcomes new EU sanctions targeting Russia’s war effort

23.10.2025 12:30
Volodymyr Zelensky has praised the European Union’s adoption of a 19th sanctions package against Russia, describing it as a demonstration of European unity amid escalating Russian attacks on civilians.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (left) and President of the European Council Antonio Costa arrive for the Euro Summit in Brussels, Belgium, 23 October 2025.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (left) and President of the European Council Antonio Costa arrive for the Euro Summit in Brussels, Belgium, 23 October 2025.Photo: OLIVIER MATTHYS/PAP/EPA

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, Zelensky said the measures target the energy and gas sector, Russia’s shadow fleet, and its defence-industrial complex - key areas which enable Moscow to continue its invasion of Ukraine.

The president also noted that, for the first time, the sanctions apply to cryptocurrency platforms that Russia has been using to circumvent existing restrictions.

Zelensky backs EU sanctions against Russia

Speaking ahead of a summit in Brussels, Zelensky said Ukraine had been awaiting the new sanctions and expressed hope that they would be effective.

The politician criticised Russia for showing no willingness to end the war, highlighting that attacks on schools, kindergartens, and civilians continue, and stressed the need to maintain pressure on President Putin to bring the conflict to a halt.

Zelensky also welcomed recent US sanctions, which target Russia’s two largest oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil, along with dozens of their subsidiaries.

The Ukrainian leader urged coordinated action by the EU, the UK, and the US to increase pressure on Moscow and bring the war closer to an end.

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Source: IAR/X/@ZelenskyyUa