Ukrainian Foreign Minister Responds to Trump’s New Ultimatum for Putin and Strengthening Sanctions Policy
Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga expressed his position regarding the recent statements made by U.S.
President Donald Trump, who set a new deadline for Russian dictator Vladimir Putin.
According to the Ukrainian diplomat, the diplomatic and political situation surrounding Russia requires a more measured and strategic approach; however, he approves of the pragmatism of American policies aimed at dismantling Russia's financial and economic foundations and restricting its military capabilities.
"Trump is trying to send a clear signal to Putin — if Russia does not change its aggressive behavior, its economy and military resources will suffer significant strikes," Sybiga stated in his post on the X platform (Twitter).
The minister emphasized that a unified and coordinated effort between the U.S., the European Union, and the G7 is the right strategy.
He noted that this is a critical moment for action, as undermining Russia’s economy is the only effective way to weaken its war machine.
"We must unite all our resources into a strong sanctions fist and strike at Russia’s defense budget, as the financing of military actions by the Kremlin remains the main obstacle to peace," he added.
Sybiga also pointed out that Russian leaders are trying to persuade the world that the war is against the West as a whole, but they have failed to achieve strategic goals over more than three years of conflict.
"If they see themselves as heroes, then they need to feel the real pressure of a united West," he stressed.
He outlined the coordinated efforts of Ukraine and its partners regarding sanctions, emphasizing close cooperation to prevent sanctions circumvention and tackling technological channels still used by Russia.
This process is already underway, and Sybiga is confident that joint efforts will yield tangible results.
Additionally, the U.S.
imposed a new deadline — 10 days — for Putin to cease hostilities in Ukraine, canceling the previous 50-day timeframe.
Furthermore, the European Union approved its 18th sanctions package against Russia, aimed at exerting further pressure on Russia's economy, details of which can be found in the article “18th Sanctions Package: Not Yet Harsh, but Still Impactful on Russia’s Economy” by Kateryna Musienko.