Zelensky Condemns US Extension of Russian Sanctions Waiver

The United States has prolonged the sanctions exemption permitting Russia to sell oil, a move criticized by Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky. This allows countries to buy Russian crude and petroleum products already at sea until 16 May. Zelensky argued that every payment for Russian oil directly funds attacks on Ukraine, calling it “money for the war.”

Sanctions against Russia have been active since February 2022, following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. However, the US has now eased restrictions, citing the need to stabilize energy supplies amid tensions with Iran. The decision, announced on 13 March, was widely denounced by Zelensky and European allies.

Iran’s retaliation for US and Israeli strikes has targeted energy infrastructure and civilian areas of US-aligned Arab nations. The country has closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for 20% of global oil and LNG. This disruption has caused energy market instability, raising fears of a global economic slowdown.

On Friday, the US extended the waiver, stating it aimed to “ensure oil is available to those who need it” as peace talks accelerate. Zelensky countered, highlighting that Russia’s shadow fleet of 110 tankers—owned by entities with concealed interests—could deliver over 12 million tons of oil. He estimated this would provide Moscow with $10bn, used to fund new strikes against Ukraine.

“Every dollar paid for Russian oil is money for the war,” said Zelensky.

The Ukrainian leader cited recent attacks, including over 2,360 drones and 1,320 guided bombs launched in the past week. The deadliest assault occurred on 15 April, when more than 700 drones and missiles struck cities in a single night, killing at least 18 people. Despite ongoing hostilities, a deadlock persists in the conflict, with Russia controlling roughly 20% of Ukrainian territory.

Zelensky noted Ukraine’s own attacks on Russian energy facilities, but emphasized that the US-led efforts to end the war have stalled due to the Iran crisis. The extension of the sanctions waiver, he argued, undermines Ukraine’s ability to counter Russian aggression.