In a comment to RBK-Ukraine, Ukraine's presidential envoy for sanctions policy, Vladislav Vasyuk, shared insights on the recent developments. This was reported by Kontrakty.UA.
Vasyuk highlighted that the United States has implemented extensive sanctions against the Russian oil sector, affecting over 400 companies, individuals, and various jurisdictions.
The sanctions target tankers transporting Russian oil, "Gazprom Neft," and "Surhgutneftegaz," as well as a Chinese oil terminal that received shipments of Russian gas.
Moreover, according to the presidential envoy, the prohibition on providing oil service to Russia is significant, which is an area where Schlumberger has been active.
"As a result, we anticipate a decline in global appetite for Russian oil, increased costs for drilling and delivery, and a reduction in Russia's oil revenues in the near future," Vasyuk noted.
What Zelensky said about the sanctions
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude to U.S. leader Joe Biden, his administration, and the entire American people for the newly announced sanctions package targeting over 400 entities linked to the Russian energy sector.
"These measures significantly undermine the financial foundation of the Russian military machine by disrupting the supply chain: key Russian producers, insurance companies, service providers in the oil and gas sector, 184 tankers of the shadow fleet, logistics facilities, and companies from third countries," the president stated.
He particularly emphasized the pressure on companies like "Surhgutneftegaz," which serves as a key financial resource for Putin himself.
"Such actions send a clear message: criminals must pay for their crimes. The less revenue Russia receives from oil and other energy resources, the sooner peace will be restored," Zelensky stressed.
According to him, energy resources should not be used as weapons, as Russia does. Instead, countries that respect international law can and must ensure stable and reliable energy supplies for the entire world.
"We are sincerely grateful for America's leadership in holding Russia accountable. I am confident these steps will significantly reduce Russia’s oil dollar revenues, along with its ability to continue aggression," the head of state added.
Sanctions against Russian oil companies
On Friday, January 10, the U.S. imposed sanctions against over 30 Russian oil service companies. At the same time, the restrictions affected a Serbian company linked to "Gazprom Neft."
The UK also imposed sanctions against the Russian companies "Gazprom Neft" and "Surhgutneftegaz." The restrictions will impact Russia's oil sale revenues.
According to Reuters, the new U.S. sanctions against Russian oil companies represent the most extensive restrictions against the energy sector of the aggressor country. Russia could lose billions of dollars each month.
Additionally, we previously reported that U.S. sanctions may also affect Russian oil supplies to India.