Zelenskyy Urges Tougher Sanctions on Russia, Says Moscow Blocking Ceasefire Efforts

Washington, D.C., July 29:

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for stronger international sanctions against Russia, accusing President Vladimir Putin of refusing to engage in ceasefire negotiations despite growing global efforts to end the conflict.

Speaking during an interview with Fox News, Zelenskyy said Ukraine, US President Donald Trump, and European allies are all seeking a diplomatic resolution to the war. However, he claimed that Russia has repeatedly declined proposals for even a temporary ceasefire that could create space for peace negotiations.

The Ukrainian leader stressed that sustained economic pressure through sanctions remains one of the most effective tools available to the international community. He also acknowledged the role played by the late US Senator Lindsey Graham, describing him as one of Ukraine’s most committed supporters since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion.

Zelenskyy said Graham had visited Ukraine numerous times during the conflict, including frontline regions, and consistently advocated stronger measures against Moscow. He added that Graham’s support helped strengthen international backing for Kyiv.

Highlighting Ukraine’s military progress, Zelenskyy said the country has significantly expanded its domestic defence manufacturing capabilities since the war began. According to him, hundreds of Ukrainian defence companies are now producing advanced military technologies to support troops on the battlefield.

He further claimed that Russian forces continue to suffer substantial monthly casualties, arguing that despite these losses, Moscow has shown no willingness to halt military operations. Zelenskyy asserted that the strategic momentum in the conflict is no longer entirely in Russia’s favour.

During his visit to Washington, Zelenskyy also welcomed the US Senate’s overwhelming procedural vote to advance a new sanctions bill targeting Russia. Calling the development an important milestone, he said the legislation reflects continued bipartisan support for Ukraine and could contribute to future peace efforts.

The Senate reportedly voted 86-12 to move the sanctions proposal forward, marking a significant step before the bill proceeds through the legislative process.

Zelenskyy also held discussions with President Donald Trump, who later described the meeting as productive, saying a wide range of issues related to Ukraine had been discussed.

Apart from political meetings, the Ukrainian President met senior executives of defence giant Lockheed Martin to explore deeper defence cooperation. The discussions focused on expanding joint production, technology sharing, and enhancing Ukraine’s air defence systems, including cooperation involving Patriot missile technology.

Kyiv views increased defence collaboration with international partners as essential to strengthening its security capabilities while continuing efforts to resist Russian military aggression.