Ella Skybenko: European Governments Contradictory on Russia Sanctions, Funding War

Ella Skybenko, attending the B4Ukraine conference, criticized European governments for a contradictory approach to sanctions against Russia. She argues they impose sanctions while allowing their companies to fund the war, calling this logic inexplicable.

Skybenko believes exhausting Russia economically is crucial. She highlights that international companies operating in Russia contribute enormous taxes to its budget, prolonging the war. She asserts that a turning point will come when Russia lacks funds and access to technology, both essential for its war effort. While China supplies some components, critical Western-made parts are still vital.

Skybenko agrees that sanctions won't change Russia's goal of Ukraine's complete destruction, as the suffering of its population doesn't move them. Europe's fear of a Russian default stems from its own financial interests and concerns about potential chaos, leading to inaction against companies supporting the war. Ukraine's Defense Intelligence frequently lists companies not under sanctions, which Skybenko attributes to financial interests.

She emphasizes that economic discomfort from sanctions is a necessary sacrifice for Europe's security, warning that failure to stop Russia now will lead to far worse consequences, potentially threatening Europe's physical existence. Ukrainians feel betrayed by Europe's inertia, especially regarding the transit of Russian oil through the Druzhba pipeline via Hungary and Slovakia, which funds the killing of their civilians. Beyond energy, the financial sector and international companies in consumer goods and retail are significant sources of Russian war revenue. Skybenko notes the Russian economy is deteriorating slowly due to sanctions, but current oil prices, partly influenced by the situation with Iran, are temporarily benefiting Russia.