The Huffington Post
A rescue worker puts out a fire of a building damaged after a Russian strike on Chernihiv region, Ukraine. A Ukrainian MP has savaged the UK government’s decision to ease sanctions on oil produced in Russia. Ministers triggered an angry backlash last month after announcing they would allow the import of Russian jet fuel and diesel which has been refined in other countries amid concerns about potential shortages caused by the war in Iran. The move appeared to fly in the face of a previous government pledge to block Russian oil refined in other countries in order to “further restrict the flow of funds to the Kremlin”. The government insisted it was only a temporary measure while tougher sanctions are phased in. But on Sky News this morning, Ukrainian MP Oleksiy Goncharenko hit out at the move, which he said was “a big moral and strategic mistake” which will boost Russia and ensure the war lasts longer. He said: “The United Kingdom, from the very beginning, was one of our biggest supporters, and the United Kingdom did an amazing job. “For us, it’s a sign that even our closest allies are beginning to waver, and this is a very big problem.” “I think it was a big moral and strategic mistake from the UK government. Morally it’s clear why, but strategic too because it encourages the aggressor. That’s exactly the opposite way from what we should do to stop this war. “This war continues only because of one thing – because of Russian oil revenues. If Russia would not have these revenues, its war chest would be empty, the war would be finished. “We are not even demanding that Russia leave occupied territories. We are ready to stop on the current lines. The only reason that the war continues is because Russia still hopes that sooner or later, our support will crack [and] our partners will waver. “Unfortunately that is exactly what was shown by the UK government, and we are very concerned about this decision and we think it should be reconsidered. “I understand all the problems with the cost of fuel and everything, but at the same time what will be the price if Russian is able to continue to advance? “What will be the price if British soldiers in Baltic states have to fight against Russians and die?” ️ 'For us, it is a sign that even our closest allies are starting to waver' Ukrainian MP @GoncharenkoUa says the UK government's relaxation of Russian sanctions 'is a big moral and strategic mistake' as it encourages Putin. pic.twitter.com/8FMvkQVyck — Ridge & Frost (@RidgeandFrost) June 4, 2026 Subscribe to Commons People , the podcast that makes politics easy. Every week, Kevin Schofield and Kate Nicholson unpack the week’s biggest stories to keep you informed. Join us for straightforward analysis of what’s going on at Westminster. Related... Ukrainian MP Calls Out 'Moment Of Weakness' From UK Over Russian Sanctions Ministers Slammed Over 'Insane' Decision To Ease Russian Oil Sanctions Despite Ukraine War
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