NextFin news, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday, September 11, 2025, publicly urged the international community to intensify and synchronize sanctions against Russia in response to its continued aggression and violations, including recent drone incursions into Polish airspace. He emphasized the importance of coordinated action among allies to maximize pressure on Moscow.
Zelensky announced that the European Union is preparing its 19th sanctions package targeting Russia, which will include restrictions on the Russian banking sector, financial institutions in countries still trading with Russia, and the so-called "shadow fleet" that facilitates Russian oil transportation. The package also aims to introduce mechanisms to counteract sanctions evasion, thereby limiting Russia’s access to critical goods.
The Ukrainian president highlighted ongoing synchronization efforts with key partners such as Canada, the United Kingdom, and Japan. Since May 10, the UK’s sanctions have been in effect in Ukraine, and Canada’s sanctions have been aligned with Ukraine’s measures. Japan is expected to complete synchronization by the end of September 2025. Zelensky stressed that this multilateral coordination strengthens the global response to Russia’s military-industrial complex and those profiting from the war.
In addition to the EU’s forthcoming sanctions, Ukraine has imposed new restrictions on 28 individuals from various countries who support Russia’s war efforts, including Russian military leaders and collaborators in occupied territories. Two Russian companies have also been sanctioned. These measures were enacted following decisions by Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council and signed by President Zelensky in August 2025.
Zelensky underscored that Ukraine is cooperating with law enforcement agencies of partner countries to hold accountable all accomplices of the Russian occupation. He reaffirmed that coordinated sanctions are a critical tool to respond effectively to security threats posed by Russia’s ongoing military actions.
The call for synchronized sanctions comes amid escalating hostilities and recent Russian drone attacks, which have prompted European leaders and the United States to consider further restrictive measures on Russian energy exports and financial operations. The EU’s 19th sanctions package is expected to include trade restrictions on Russian oil transported via pipelines such as Druzhba, as well as enhanced measures against entities facilitating Russia’s war economy.
President Zelensky’s appeal reflects Ukraine’s strategic approach to leverage international partnerships to isolate Russia economically and politically, aiming to curtail its capacity to sustain military aggression. The coordinated sanctions effort is part of a broader international response involving diplomatic, military, and humanitarian support to Ukraine.
Sources: Mezha.net (September 11, 2025), Babel.ua (August 23, 2025), official statements from President Volodymyr Zelensky’s social media channels.
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