Zelensky Reveals Details of Interference in the International Dialogue on Sanctions Against Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently made an unexpected confession that could have a significant impact on international policy and the further development of the conflict. During a recent meeting with his American counterpart Donald Trump at the Vatican, the Ukrainian leader spoke on the topic of sanctions against Russia, particularly its energy and banking sectors. According to information received from sources, including Interfax-Ukraine and European Pravda, this high-level conversation also addressed the issue of strengthening international restrictions. According to Zelensky, during the ceremonial meeting at the Vatican, organized in honor of Pope Francis's memory, the Ukrainian president and the former American leader discussed in detail possible steps to enhance the international community’s sanction efforts. Specifically, he emphasized that Trump supported the idea of imposing the strictest possible restrictions in two key areas — Russia’s energy and banking systems. "President Trump confirmed that if Russia continues to ignore calls to cease its aggression, sanctions will become unavoidable. We discussed two main sectors: energy and banking. Whether the U.S. can impose sanctions precisely in these areas was on the agenda, and I very much hope that it will happen," Zelensky’s press service quoted. The Ukrainian leader noted that a main outcome of this conversation is the confirmation from the U.S. of solidarity in the fight against Russian aggression and the intention to enforce the harshest measures if the Kremlin refuses to make peace. According to him, this meeting was another testament to the firm policy of the U.S. administration supportive of Ukraine and its desire for peace through economic pressure. It should be noted that this meeting took place on April 26 during a visit to the Vatican organized in honor of a joint memorial in honor of Pope Francis. Zelensky himself called this meeting "possibly historic," emphasizing its potential influence on the future course of Ukrainian-international cooperation in the context of the war. Meanwhile, the White House highlighted that the meeting between the two leaders was very productive and provided a clear understanding of the directions for further cooperation and joint actions towards ending the war. On the same day, Donald Trump openly expressed his position on the situation, sharply criticizing recent Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities and expressing doubts about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s intentions for a quick resolution of the conflict. At the same time, the former American president threatened to impose sanctions on the Kremlin if the escalation continues. This is not the first time Ukrainian and U.S. leaders have discussed sanctions in the context of the war. Previously, during brief but tense meetings in the Vatican, Zelensky noted that such diplomatic communication has the potential to become a historic step in increasing international pressure on Russia. It is also important to highlight that world leaders have a clear understanding of the importance of strengthening economic sanctions, which are intended to become a key mechanism to deter the Kremlin and ensure Ukrainian sovereignty. Overall, this diplomatic step indicates that Ukraine continues to leverage all opportunities to involve the international community in more active measures. Introducing stricter sanctions against Russia, especially in the energy and financial sectors, could become an important step towards overcoming the military and economic crisis the country faces due to Moscow’s aggression. It is evident that these high-level diplomatic negotiations demonstrate that Ukraine and its allies are committed to intensifying pressure and are prepared to pursue efforts to force Russia to end the war either diplomatically or under international sanctions.