Temporary easing of US sanctions will not save Russia, says Zelenskyy's sanctions advisor

Vladyslav Vlasiuk, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's Commissioner for Sanctions Policy, has said the temporary suspension of US sanctions on the sale of Russian oil and petroleum products should not be overestimated in its impact on Russia's economy, given the large budget deficit.

Source: Vlasiuk in a comment to Ukrinform

Details: Vlasiuk stressed that Ukraine would prefer the US not to ease sanctions on Russian oil, while cautioning against overestimating the impact of Washington's decision.

Quote: "At this point, the structural changes that have taken place in Russia's economy are too serious to be saved by this temporary easing of sanctions. If the situation suddenly drags on and turns into a long-term one, then it will become a lifeline. But for now I would not overestimate the effect. This is bad for us, but considering the changes in Russia's economy, it will not save them."

Details: Vlasiuk emphasised that the first two months of 2026 had been difficult for Russia's budget – it did not receive oil and gas revenues or other income, and almost 80% of the planned annual deficit had already been used.

"It looks like US$58 [per barrel – ed.] is no longer enough for them to balance the budget – they need US$65 or more. And that price must hold until the end of the year. Whether that will happen is a question," he said.

Vlasiuk also said he doubts that the easing of sanctions would lead to a drop in oil prices. In his view, the decisive factor remains the situation in the Strait of Hormuz and the duration of the war in the Middle East.

Background: The US is suspending sanctions for one month on the sale of Russian oil and petroleum products loaded onto vessels before 12 March. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that the regime of Kremlin ruler Vladimir Putin will not receive significant profit from the temporary easing.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!