Zelenskyy Calls for Stronger Global Pressure on Russia

On June 17, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivered a powerful address to the G7 leaders in Canada, urging the international community to intensify its pressure on Russia. The ongoing war in Ukraine, which began in February 2022, has brought untold suffering to millions, and Zelenskyy emphasized that the global response must be resolute and unified to bring peace.

Russia’s Escalation and the Human Toll

In his speech, Zelenskyy highlighted the devastating impact of Russia’s latest missile and drone strikes, which targeted Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv. According to Zelenskyy, the attack involved 440 drones and 32 missiles, some equipped with cluster warheads, causing widespread destruction. Tragically, 15 people lost their lives, including a U.S. citizen, and 131 were injured. Rescue operations continued as debris was cleared from 150 damaged residential buildings in Kyiv alone. The President expressed gratitude for the air defense systems provided by Western allies, which intercepted many of the attacks, saving countless lives (President).

However, Zelenskyy warned that Russia’s growing military collaboration with Iran and North Korea poses a significant global threat. He noted that Russia has been upgrading Iranian Shahed drones and transferring their production to North Korea, further escalating the conflict. This, he argued, underscores the urgent need for international investment in defense technologies and localized production in Ukraine to counter these threats (Uatv).

Strengthening Sanctions to Target Russia’s Economy

Zelenskyy called on G7 leaders to tighten sanctions on Russia, particularly in the energy and banking sectors. He emphasized the importance of enforcing a stricter price cap on Russian oil, proposing a reduction from the current $45 to $30 per barrel. According to Zelenskyy, this measure would significantly weaken Russia’s ability to finance its military operations, making the war increasingly unsustainable for the Kremlin (Pravda).

The President also urged the European Union to adopt its 18th sanctions package, targeting Russian energy exports and financial institutions. He argued that these steps are essential to deprive Russia of the resources it needs to continue its aggression. Zelenskyy reminded the international community that Russia has consistently rejected diplomatic efforts, leaving sanctions as one of the few effective tools to compel Moscow to negotiate (President).

Appealing for U.S. Leadership

During his address, Zelenskyy stressed the pivotal role of the United States in influencing the outcome of the war. He called on U.S. President Donald Trump to use America’s significant global influence to pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin into ending the conflict. Zelenskyy praised past U.S. efforts to propose ceasefires and initiate diplomatic talks, which Russia has consistently blocked. “This war continues because of Russia,” Zelenskyy declared, urging the U.S. to lead by example in rallying the international community (Uatv).

He also appealed for $40 billion in annual budgetary support from G7 countries, including the U.S., to ensure Ukraine’s resilience. This funding, he argued, is not just an investment in Ukraine’s survival but also in global stability and security. Zelenskyy reiterated that the stakes extend beyond Ukraine, affecting Europe, the Indo-Pacific, and North America (Pravda).

The Path Forward

As the war enters its fourth year, Zelenskyy’s message to the G7 was clear: the international community must act decisively to end Russia’s aggression. This includes not only strengthening sanctions and military support but also ensuring that Ukraine has the resources to defend itself and rebuild. The President’s appeal serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of the war and the urgent need for global unity to secure peace.

President Zelenskyy’s address underscores the critical importance of international solidarity in addressing Russia’s aggression. As the world watches, the decisions made by global leaders today will shape the future of Ukraine and the broader international order.