Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on the United States to expand sanctions on Russia’s oil industry, asserting that economic pressure remains one of the strongest tools against Moscow as the war enters its fourth year. During his visit to London, Zelenskyy met over two dozen European leaders at a summit hosted by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, aimed at reinforcing international support for Ukraine and intensifying pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Zelenskyy urged Washington to target the entire Russian oil sector rather than only a few major companies, stressing the need for stronger measures to limit Russia’s ability to fund its war. He also renewed appeals for advanced long-range missiles, including Tomahawk systems, to enhance Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
The London meeting, attended by leaders such as Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, focused on tightening sanctions, strengthening Ukraine’s air defense, and securing its energy grid ahead of winter. Western nations acknowledged that Russia continues to exploit loopholes to evade sanctions but agreed to work toward closing them.
Meanwhile, economic indicators point to growing pressure inside Russia, including regional bankruptcies and a widening federal budget deficit. Western officials noted that despite the Kremlin’s claims of resilience, the sanctions are eroding Moscow’s war capacity.
UK Prime Minister Starmer reiterated that Putin continues to reject peace talks while demanding Ukrainian territory he has failed to capture. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte added that Russia is facing mounting shortages of funds, manpower, and strategy.
The “Coalition of the Willing” reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining Ukraine’s defense and isolating Moscow economically, signaling continued Western unity in countering Russian aggression.
