The United States has unveiled sweeping sanctions aimed directly at crippling Russia’s oil and gas sector, seeking to disrupt Moscow’s ability to fund its ongoing war in Ukraine. Announced on Friday, the sanctions target major oil giants Gazprom Neft and Surgutneftegas, alongside 183 vessels involved in petroleum transport and 80 companies connected to liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. The penalties freeze US-based assets and prohibit American citizens from engaging in financial transactions with these entities.
US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen called the sanctions a substantial hit to Russia’s “brutal and illegal war,” with senior US officials asserting that the measures are designed to undercut every stage of Russia’s oil production and distribution, potentially costing the Kremlin billions each month. The UK has introduced similar actions, reinforcing the global push to squeeze Russia’s oil revenues, a vital source of income for its war machine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his appreciation, hailing the US-led initiative as a crucial step in weakening Russia’s financial power and its war efforts. He noted that these actions will significantly reduce Russia’s income from oil exports, hindering its ability to continue aggression against Ukraine.
These sanctions come at a critical juncture in the war, as Ukraine’s counteroffensive faces mounting challenges in regaining territory held by Russian forces. With these new measures, the US and its allies aim to intensify pressure on Moscow and move closer to a peaceful resolution.
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