Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has strongly praised a new U.S. action. President Donald Trump sanctions Russian oil giants Rosneft and Lukoil.
Zelensky spoke at an EU summit in Brussels on October 23, 2025. He called the move a “powerful and timely” strike against Moscow’s war effort.
This move, combined with new EU measures, aims to choke Russia’s economy. The goal is to force a ceasefire as the war enters its fourth year.
“This is the pressure we’ve been waiting for to stop Russia’s aggression,” Zelensky stated.
Why Trump Sanctions Russian Oil Now
The new measures target Russia’s economic core. They block all U.S. dealings with Rosneft and Lukoil, two firms essential for funding the invasion.
The announcement followed stalled peace talks with Vladimir Putin. Reports indicate Trump’s patience wore thin after a planned Budapest summit failed.
Zelensky praised the “decisive and targeted” action on social media. “Aggression has a price,” he posted.
EU Coordinates with 19th Sanctions Package
The European Union immediately amplified the pressure. The bloc adopted its 19th sanctions package on October 23.
This new package accelerates a ban on Russian LNG imports, setting a 2027 deadline.
Furthermore, it targets over 100 tankers in Russia’s “shadow fleet” of aging oil ships. The EU also restricted several Russian diplomats suspected of espionage.
A “Game-Changer” for Ukraine
Speaking in Brussels, Zelensky thanked Trump for sending a “clear message.” He called the coordinated effort a “game-changer.”
He stressed the sanctions are a direct response to Russia’s recent attacks on Ukrainian civilians, including strikes on schools and homes.
“This shows the world: terror has consequences,” Zelensky told reporters.
However, he also repeated his urgent call for more military aid. He specifically requested long-range weapons and air defenses to protect Ukraine’s people.
A Unified Front Against Moscow
This new, unified front from the U.S. and EU aims to finally cripple Moscow’s revenue.
Zelensky remains cautiously optimistic about the measures. He sees a potential path to a ceasefire.
The world now watches to see if this combined economic pressure will finally force Putin to the negotiating table.
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