Zelensky condemns US extension of Russian sanctions waiver
BBC • • nation
Key Points:
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the US decision to extend the waiver allowing the sale of Russian oil already loaded on vessels until 16 May, arguing it funds Russia's war in Ukraine.
- The US justified the extension as necessary to ease the global energy supply crunch caused by the conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran, including Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route.
- Zelensky highlighted Russia's "shadow fleet" of over 110 tankers carrying more than 12 million tons of oil, which could generate $10 billion to finance further attacks on Ukraine.
- The ongoing conflict has seen intensified Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities, including a deadly assault on 15 April involving over 700 drones and missiles, resulting in at least 18 deaths.
- The US move to ease sanctions faced criticism from Ukraine and European allies amid fears that continued Russian oil sales undermine efforts to pressure Moscow economically.
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