During the G7 foreign ministers' summit in France on March 26-27, the partners discussed the possibility of tightening sanctions against Russia's so-called shadow fleet. This includes a ban on providing maritime services to such tankers.
This was announced by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga. According to him, despite the instability in the energy markets caused by the situation around the Strait of Hormuz, the issue of applying additional pressure on Russia remains relevant.
The European Union is currently considering options to tighten restrictions specifically on servicing Russian tankers that are used to circumvent sanctions.
Separately, Sibiga emphasized important signals from the United States regarding military assistance to Ukraine. According to him, during the meeting, clear assurances were given that the weapons provided under the relevant support programs have not been and will not be redirected to other countries.
The minister clarified that such guarantees were voiced at the level of the US Secretary of State in the presence of other heads of foreign policy departments. The point is that the resources allocated to Ukraine are used exclusively for their intended purpose.
In addition, Ukraine has received additional positive signals regarding the further expansion of the support program. In particular, a contribution is expected from another new partner country.
The discussion within the G7 indicates the allies' intention to continue to increase economic and military-political pressure on Russia, as well as to maintain stable support for Ukraine in the context of the ongoing war.
