Ukraine calls on Europe to tighten sanctions against Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on Europe to take more decisive action in countering Russian aggression, urging stronger measures against the so-called “shadow fleet” and an expansion of sanctions targeting Russia.

Speaking to journalists during an online session, Zelenskyy stressed the ongoing importance of European support for Ukraine, citing the €90 billion loan package and joint production initiatives. However, he warned that Russia continues to circumvent sanctions, a practice he insisted must be stopped, Caliber.Az reports, citing Ukrainian media.

"But tankers carrying Russian oil, for example, have been moving across Europe all year. Yesterday, there was, indeed, one of the few cases when France stopped a tanker. But before that, there was one or two times, and then they were released. This must be tightened," Zelenskyy said. He emphasized that sanctions evasion is particularly critical with components Russia obtains from Europe, the US, and Taiwan, which are used to produce missiles and drones targeting Ukraine.

"And this needs to be stopped. How can we just talk about it for years? You see, we’ve been raising this issue for more than a year. And, unfortunately, it’s not being fully addressed," he added.

The Ukrainian president also highlighted the strategic need for the creation of joint European armed forces.

"We have made a good step regarding the coalition (‘of the resolute’ – ed.), but it is only a small step. You know, like a child’s first step, and we need adult steps forward," Zelensky noted.

By  Vafa Guliyeva