Kyiv
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised the United States for imposing “highly effective” sanctions targeting Russia’s banking sector, which he believes are weakening President Vladimir Putin’s regime. In a statement on Monday, Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of these sanctions in disrupting Russia’s war efforts and urged for more action to stop Russia’s ability to fund the war.
The US sanctions, announced on November 21, aim to limit Russia’s use of the international financial system. Zelenskyy wrote, “These measures significantly weaken Putin’s regime,” but stressed that more must be done to ensure Russia loses its financial power every week. He warned that no matter how much Russia uses blackmail, the world must remain firm in its stance to bring lasting peace.
Zelenskyy also thanked several countries for their continued support, highlighting recent defense aid packages. Denmark, Norway, and Sweden are helping fund Ukraine’s defense industry, with Denmark contributing 1 billion kroner for weapons production. The US has provided $275 million in military supplies, including HIMARS ammunition, drones, and Javelins, vital for defense in areas like Donetsk. Germany and Canada also provided new defense systems to assist Ukraine.
On November 21, the US Department of State announced sanctions on 118 individuals and entities in Russia’s financial sector, including Gazprombank, to cut off financial support for Russia’s war efforts. The US vowed to continue holding accountable those who enable Russia’s illegal actions.
