UK struggles to reassure Ukraine after easing new sanctions on Russian oil
The UK is attempting to reassure Ukraine after easing certain sanctions on Russian oil, which has raised concerns in Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed disappointment over the changes, emphasizing the importance of long-term sanctions to influence Russia. The UK government insists that the overall sanctions package remains strong despite the temporary exceptions.
- ▪The UK has allowed temporary imports of Russian oil and jet fuel, causing concern in Ukraine.
- ▪Ukrainian officials warned that the changes could help fund Russia's war efforts.
- ▪President Zelenskyy stated that discussions with the UK about sanctions have taken place.
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Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the Ukrainian president, said Kyiv had ‘conveyed its views’ to London over the sanctions move. Photograph: Julia Kochetova/The GuardianView image in fullscreenVolodymyr Zelenskyy, the Ukrainian president, said Kyiv had ‘conveyed its views’ to London over the sanctions move. Photograph: Julia Kochetova/The GuardianUkraineUK struggles to reassure Ukraine after easing new sanctions on Russian oilDiplomats mount salvage operation after ‘clumsy’ announcement upsets KyivPeter Walker and Luke HardingWed 20 May 2026 14.55 EDTLast modified on Wed 20 May 2026 14.56 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleThe UK was last night desperately trying to reassure Kyiv its new sanctions policy on Russia did not weaken restrictions, after Ukrainian officials warned the change could help…
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