Washington (TDI): The United States has announced sweeping sanctions targeting Russia’s oil and gas industry in a move aimed at curbing Moscow’s ability to finance its war in Ukraine.
The sanctions, unveiled on Friday, target two major Russian oil producers, Gazprom Neft and Surgutneftegas, as well as 183 vessels involved in petroleum transport and eighty entities connected to liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports.
The sanctions freeze assets within the United States and restrict American nationals from engaging in financial dealings with the listed companies and individuals.
US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen termed the sanctions as a major blow to Russia’s “brutal and illegal war against Ukraine.”
A senior US official stated that the sanctions are designed to disrupt every stage of Russia’s oil production and distribution, potentially costing the country billions of dollars each month.
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The Britian has introduced parallel measures, stressing the need to cut Russia’s oil revenues.
The UK government said in a statement that the sanctions represent progress toward a just and enduring peace in Ukraine.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the sanctions, expressing gratitude for the US leadership in holding Russia accountable.
“These measures will significantly reduce Moscow’s petrodollar income and its ability to continue its aggression,” Zelenskyy said in a statement on social media.
The latest sanctions arrive amidst a prolonged and bloody war, with Ukraine’s counteroffensive struggling to reclaim eastern territories occupied by Moscow.
