Zelensky at G7: ‘Enhance sanctions against Russia, no time for negotiations’

LAST UPDATE: 16.45

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky today called on the Group of Seven (G7) to step up sanctions against Russia by “limiting oil prices” exported by Moscow.

“For us, a reasonably consistent position of the G7 countries in terms of sanctions is important. They need to be further strengthened by reducing the prices of oil exported by the attacker,” he wrote in his Telegram account, summarizing his intervention via video link at the summit. G7 summit held in Germany.

Zelensky also said in his message that “Ukraine feels the support of the G7 countries.”

“I thank you for the help in terms of defense and finances offered to our country in the fight against the Russian invasion,” he said.

According to the French presidency, the Ukrainian president told G7 leaders today that the time had not come for negotiations with Russia and that Ukraine must first consolidate its positions.

“President Zelensky gave everyone an answer that was very clear, that today is not the time for negotiations, Ukraine will negotiate when it is able to do so, that is, when it is in power,” the Elysee said.

“Waiting, he needs to end the war as soon as possible,” the French presidency added, stressing that the Ukrainian leader had set a deadline for winter.

Zelensky insisted on the “need for full, comprehensive, highly operational support in Ukraine” in order to allow the “restoration of the country’s territorial integrity”.

He called for more military equipment “so that Ukraine can stop the Russians from advancing beyond the February lines.”

The G7 leaders presented “extremely converging” positions in line with “President Zelensky’s expectations”, the Elysee Palace said.

President Emanuel Macron “has made it very clear that nothing concerning Ukraine will be decided without Ukraine” and that it is “up to Kyiv” to determine when it can enter into negotiations with Russia.