Russia’s Priority: Lifting Sanctions on Oligarchs and Energy Sources
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky’s commissioner for sanctions, Vladyslav Vlasiuk, said that Russia is most interested in lifting US sanctions on oligarchs and energy sources.
According to Vlasiuk, the Russian government is concerned about two things: oligarchs who are under US, EU, and UK sanctions, and restrictions on their ability to make money through energy sales.
Sanctions on oligarchs linked to the Kremlin were imposed by the Biden administration after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The US Justice Department has seized assets worth around $700 million as part of this effort.
US Cooperation on Sanctions Continues
Kyiv continues to work with Washington on further sanctions against Russia, including targeting its “shadow fleet” of oil-carrying vessels and components used in Russian drones and missiles.
However, the US is less eager to impose new individual and financial sanctions on Russia, Vlasiuk said.
Other Developments:
* President Zelensky met with former US President Donald Trump in Washington, where they discussed a framework deal on Ukraine’s natural resources.
* Ukrainian forces downed 107 out of 208 drones launched by Russia overnight.
* Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban warned that allowing Russian troops into Ukraine would have devastating consequences for his country.
Russia’s Diplomatic Efforts
Moscow has suggested resuming direct air travel with the US during diplomatic talks in Istanbul. The Russian Foreign Ministry also mentioned this possibility to Reuters.
Ukrainian officials are working to strengthen their economy and military through foreign aid, individual donations, and domestic fundraising efforts. In 2024 alone, nearly $1 billion was raised for critical weapons and equipment for the Ukrainian military.
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