Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has condemned the recent US decision to ease some sanctions on Russian oil sales, a move he says “certainly does not help achieve peace” and could be worth a staggering $10 billion to Russia. This unexpected move from President Donald Trump has sparked widespread criticism from European leaders who fear it will only prolong the ongoing conflict and bolster the Kremlin’s war chest.
According to the BBC, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced late on Thursday a temporary suspension of sanctions on Russian oil already on tankers at sea. Zelenskyy, at a news conference in Paris, made it clear he views this as a significant setback. He believes that every dollar Russia earns eases the pressure on its war economy, allowing it to acquire more weapons and recruit additional soldiers for the front lines.
