Putin Wants a Long War – Zelenskyy Highlights How Iran Conflict Benefits Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that Russia is the main beneficiary of the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran.

Reports say the Donald Trump administration recently gave countries a 30-day window to purchase Russian oil and petroleum products that had been stuck at sea due to sanctions. This move aimed to help reduce rising oil prices caused by the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, it has faced sanctions from the US and European nations. Analysts, however, have said that easing these sanctions could provide Moscow with significant funds, which it could use to continue its war in Ukraine.

When asked whether Russian President Vladimir Putin is benefiting from the sanctions relief, which has drawn criticism from many European countries, Zelenskyy told the BBC:

“Putin wants a long war. For Putin, the Iranian campaign is a plus. Besides high energy prices, it also means the US is running out of resources and the companies that make air defence systems are also facing shortages – so there’s a lack of resources overall.

“So, it’s good for Putin that the resources aren’t being used against Ukraine, which is where he’s sending his army and fighting. He needs to weaken US and this is a long process. One way to do that is the Middle East.”

Zelenskyy added that the situation shows how the Middle East conflict diverts US attention and resources away from the war in Ukraine, giving Russia a chance to prolong the conflict.