Zelensky and EU Discuss 18th Sanctions Package Against Russia

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky held important talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, during which they discussed the new 18th package of sanctions against Russia. The head of state announced this on his Telegram channel.

Zelensky expressed gratitude to the European Union for adopting the 17th sanctions package, calling it “a step in the right direction.” He emphasized the importance of strictly limiting the Russian tanker fleet that finances military actions, as well as all schemes Russia uses to develop its military industry.

“The more pressure on Russia, the more reasons Moscow will have to seek genuine peace,” the president noted.

During the conversation, Zelensky also discussed with Ursula von der Leyen the preparation of the EU’s 18th sanctions package. He highlighted that the most painful restrictions for Russia are in the areas of oil, energy infrastructure, banking activities, and financial schemes.

“Thanks to everyone who supports the need to strengthen sanctions and makes decisive decisions,” the president added.

The politicians also discussed in detail the recent conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump and joint diplomatic work with international partners. Zelensky stressed that Europe must remain active in this process, and all actions should be as coordinated as possible.

On May 20, the EU Council approved the 17th package of sanctions against Russia. EU High Representative Kaja Kallas noted that this round is the largest since the start of the war, including new hybrid sanctions, measures related to human rights, as well as sanctions against the use of chemical weapons.

The EU Council imposed sanctions on three Russian units that are part of the Russian Armed Forces and involved in the development and use of chemical weapons in the war against Ukraine. The sanctions list includes the Radiation, Chemical, and Biological Protection Troops, the 27th Scientific Center, and the 33rd Central Research and Testing Institute of the Russian Ministry of Defense.

These units are part of the Russian military forces. The decision was made based on reports from the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), published in November 2024 and February 2025.