Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed profound gratitude to the United States for its recent imposition of extensive sanctions targeting Russia's energy sector, calling the measures a "significant blow" to Moscow's military capabilities. The sanctions, announced on January 10, 2025, are part of a strategic effort by the Biden administration to undermine Russia's financial resources amid its ongoing aggression in Ukraine.
In a statement shared on social media, President Zelenskyy emphasized that these sanctions disrupt the financial foundation of Russia's military operations. "These measures significantly undermine the financial foundation of the Russian military machine by disrupting supply chains involving key producers, insurance companies, and logistics facilities," he stated.
The newly enacted sanctions specifically target over 400 entities connected to Russia's oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) industries. This includes prominent firms such as Gazprom Neft and Surgutneftegaz, as well as 183 vessels involved in transporting Russian oil. The sanctions are expected to result in substantial financial losses for Russia, potentially amounting to billions of dollars each month.
Zelenskyy highlighted the importance of these actions in reducing Russia's oil revenue, which he believes is crucial for restoring peace in Ukraine. "The less revenue Russia earns from oil, the sooner peace will be restored," he noted. He also reiterated that energy resources should not be weaponized, asserting that nations respecting international law must ensure stable and reliable energy supplies globally.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen echoed Zelenskyy’s sentiments, stating that these sanctions represent the most significant measures taken against Russia’s energy sector since the onset of the conflict. "The United States is undertaking significant measures against Russia's primary revenue source that finances its brutal and unlawful war against Ukraine," she said.
The sanctions come at a pivotal moment as Ukraine continues to defend itself against Russian aggression that has persisted for nearly three years. Despite the challenges faced on the battlefield, Zelenskyy remains optimistic about Ukraine's resilience and the support it receives from international allies.