Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has firmly stated that Ukraine opposes any reduction of sanctions against the Belarusian fertilizer manufacturer Belaruskali. Instead, he advocates for increased pressure on the regime.
During a joint press conference with opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya in Kyiv, Sybiha responded to inquiries regarding reports that some international partners are attempting to persuade Ukraine to relax its sanctions. He emphasized that Kyiv is categorically against such measures.
“We reject any approaches related to easing pressure on the aggressor. On the contrary, pressure must be intensified, and we have received position papers from the Belarusian side regarding new sanctions,” Sybiha stated.
While he refrained from commenting on reports in Western media suggesting that the U.S. administration is advocating for a reduction in sanctions, he noted that attempts to influence Ukraine are futile. He asserted that such actions would not alter the Belarusian regime’s support for Russia.
“One should not have illusions that any easing will pull Belarus away from Russia’s sphere of influence. It will not succeed. Belarus is too integrated with the Russians,” he remarked.
Earlier reports indicated that the U.S. is pressuring Ukraine to lift restrictions on Belarusian fertilizers, which are crucial for financing the regime. Lithuania has also acknowledged the U.S. pressure regarding Belarusian fertilizers, although subsequent statements from Lithuanian officials denied that the minister had confirmed such pressure.
Ukrainian officials have reiterated their stance against easing sanctions on Belarusian fertilizer producers, emphasizing the need for increased pressure on the regime. This position comes amid reports of external efforts to persuade Ukraine to relax its sanctions.