Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed a decree to synchronize sanctions against Russia with those imposed by the European Union. The decree, posted on Ukraine's Presidential Office website, confirms an earlier decision by the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine.

According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy has also signed another decree imposing new sanctions on Moscow. This move follows his instructions to Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha earlier this month to coordinate the 18th sanctions package adopted by the EU against Russia on July 18, to be implemented within Ukraine's jurisdiction.

Zelenskyy stated on X that all 18 EU sanctions packages are now fully aligned and in effect in Ukraine. The 18th sanctions package specifically targets structures affiliated with Russia's shadow tanker fleet and includes restrictions on 53 individuals and legal entities from Russia, China, Iran, and other countries.

The second sanctions decision approved by Zelenskyy focuses on Russian military production, imposing restrictions on over 90 Russian companies involved in the extraction of rare-earth and critical metals. These metals are crucial for Russia's production of electronics, guidance systems, engines, and drones. Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of coordinating Kyiv's sanctions with those of Ukraine's international partners.

The Ukrainian president believes that maximum sanctions pressure is the most effective way to persuade Russia to end the ongoing conflict. Russia has not yet commented on Zelenskyy's remarks or the signing of the decrees.