Zelenskyy Urges West to Deprive Putin of Resources to Stop Russia’s War Against Ukraine
In a televised address to the nation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on the international community, particularly the Western powers, to take immediate action to deprive Russian President Vladimir Putin of the financial resources and capability to produce more weapons for his ongoing war against Ukraine.
Addressing the European Union, NATO, and the United States, Zelenskyy urged them to implement a comprehensive sanctions package aimed at crippling Russia’s ability to fund and wage war against Ukraine. "We urge the international community to join us in imposing the harshest sanctions on Russia, including sanctions on individuals, entities, and companies involved in the war," he said.
Zelenskyy’s call comes as the Russian military has stepped up its aggression in Ukraine, with widespread bombing and shelling of civilian targets, including hospitals, schools, and residential areas. The humanitarian crisis is mounting, with thousands of people killed, injured, or displaced, and countless families separated or orphaned.
The Ukrainian President emphasized that Russia’s ability to wage war against Ukraine is fueled by the country’s vast oil and gas reserves, as well as its access to foreign currencies. "Putin’s war is made possible by the Russian energy giants, which are funding his aggressive policies," he said. "We urge the West to deny Russia access to these resources and to target companies and individuals who are supporting Putin’s war."
Zelenskyy also urged the international community to restrict Russia’s access to advanced technologies and military equipment, particularly those produced in Western countries. "We must ensure that Russia does not have the capability to produce more weapons and maintain its war effort," he said.
In response to the international community’s lack of progress on imposing effective sanctions on Russia, Zelenskyy threatened to seek alternative means to protect Ukraine. "If the West fails to act, we will have to look elsewhere for support and protection," he said. "We will not stand idly by while Russia destroys our country and kills our people."
Zelenskyy’s remarks come as tensions between Ukraine and Russia continue to escalate. Last week, Russia launched a barrage of missile strikes on Ukrainian cities, including the capital Kiev, killing scores of civilians and causing widespread destruction. In response, the Ukrainian military has vowed to fight back, and the country has mobilized thousands of troops to the front lines.
The international community has expressed concern over the escalating violence in Ukraine, with many calling for a diplomatic solution to the conflict. The European Union has issued a statement condemning Russia’s aggression and calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities, while the United States has pledged to provide further military aid to Ukraine to support its defense against Russian aggression.
Zelenskyy’s call to deprive Putin of resources to stop Russia’s war against Ukraine is a bold move that highlights the urgent need for the international community to take action to end the violence and protect the people of Ukraine. As the war rages on, the world watches with bated breath, waiting for a solution that will bring peace and stability to the region.