Ukraine backs EU sanctions on Iran, withdraws from Ottawa Convention

Kyiv

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday announced that Ukraine will fully align with the European Union's sanctions package against Iran, calling it one of the "most brutal regimes in the world."

In a video message shared on X, Zelensky said Ukrainian institutions are working to synchronise European and Ukrainian sanctions. He stressed that the sanctions target Iranian individuals, companies, and entities involved in military production, regional terror activities, and domestic repression.

“It is one of the most brutal regimes in the world. No surprise that Putin found common ground with it,” Zelensky said, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Zelensky also stressed that global sanctions against Russia remain a top priority, calling them a vital tool to weaken Moscow’s military capabilities and limit its war efforts in Ukraine.

Additionally, Zelensky announced that he had signed a decree to withdraw Ukraine from the Ottawa Convention, which bans anti-personnel mines. He said Russia, which never joined the convention, has used such mines extensively and cynically.

“Russia has long made it a trademark to destroy life by every means possible. They use chemical weapons, ballistic missiles, and various types of mines, including anti-personnel ones,” Zelensky said.

He acknowledged the complexities of withdrawing from the convention but described the move as necessary during wartime. He also called on Ukraine’s partners and neighbouring countries to focus on the threat posed by Russia.

Zelensky added that anti-personnel mines often have no alternative as a defensive tool, especially for countries bordering Russia.

The decision underlines Ukraine’s strategic shift as it continues to strengthen its defence against Russian aggression while aligning closely with European allies on foreign policy and security measures.