Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has raised concerns about Russia’s potential to capitalize on rising global oil prices, exacerbated by the ongoing U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran. He indicated that there are measures in place aimed at curbing Russian oil exports.
During a recent press briefing, Zelensky emphasized the importance of sanctions as a means to limit Russia’s ability to increase its oil revenue during this crisis. He stated, “Russia wants to earn more amid this crisis. However, there are various measures that can reduce their export capabilities. Besides our internal long-range responses, there are also some decisions being made by the United States.”
Zelensky pointed out that sanctions should be comprehensive, extending beyond Russian tankers to include shipping companies, captains, and crews. He argued that detained vessels should not be released, asserting that such actions are necessary to effectively combat the Russian tanker fleet.
“Undoubtedly, this is very difficult to achieve, but it is possible to work with most tankers in this way. Well, this is probably the only option available at the moment,” Zelensky added.
Military Operations Against Iran
On February 28, Israel launched an attack on Tehran, the Iranian capital. Following this, U.S. President Donald Trump announced the commencement of a “major combat operation” against Iran, aimed at eliminating what he described as imminent threats posed by the Iranian regime. He accused Iranian authorities of financing and training militants in Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Palestine.
Trump articulated that the objective of the military operation is to dismantle Iran’s missile industry and naval capabilities, thereby preventing further destabilization of global security.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reported that it had launched missiles and drones towards Israel and targeted U.S. military bases in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
In light of the U.S. military actions against Iran, French President Emmanuel Macron called for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council. The European Union reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring regional security and stability in the Middle East.
Zelensky expressed support for the Iranian populace, suggesting they deserve a chance to rid themselves of what he termed a “terrorist regime” and to secure safety for all nations affected by Iranian attacks.
On February 28, Trump tweeted that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was dead, a claim later confirmed by the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA). On March 1, the IRGC announced the initiation of “the most destructive offensive operation in the history of the Islamic Republic” against Israel and U.S. military bases. Trump responded by urging the Iranian regime to abandon these plans, threatening a “very strong strike” in retaliation.
President Zelensky has warned that Russia may exploit rising oil prices amid the U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict, advocating for comprehensive sanctions to limit Russian oil exports. Concurrently, military tensions escalate as the U.S. and Israel engage in operations against Iran, prompting international calls for security discussions.