Zelenskyy Warns Oil Prices Bolster Russia’s War

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that the surge in global oil prices, triggered by Israeli strikes on Iran, is benefitting Russia by increasing its oil revenues and strengthening its war effort in Ukraine. He expressed concern that Western allies have not enforced effective price caps on Russian oil and that U.S. military aid could be redirected to Israel amid escalating Middle East tensions, possibly weakening Ukraine's defenses. Zelenskyy urged tougher U.S. sanctions on Russia and criticized what he described as an overly conciliatory approach to Moscow under President Trump, calling for a firmer stance at the upcoming G7 summit. He dismissed Russia's recent 'peace proposal' as an ultimatum incompatible with Ukrainian sovereignty and highlighted Iran's continued role in arming Russia. Zelenskyy also warned southeastern European leaders that Russia's ambitions extend beyond Ukraine to Moldova and Romania, stressing the need for regional security guarantees. While Germany announced a new aid package for Ukraine, it declined to supply long-range missiles, reflecting broader European hesitation.