G7 tightens sanctions on Russian oil and gas, expands military aid for Ukraine at Évian summit

Sanctions on Russian energy

G7 leaders committed to “increase pressure on Russia’s war economy” through strengthened sanctions on oil and gas, according to a joint communiqué. The move was timed after the US-Iran provisional peace deal that reopened the Strait of Hormuz, which has pushed international crude prices lower, creating what the leaders called “the right moment to proceed with additional measures.” The United Kingdom and Canada separately announced sanctions on Russia’s so‑called “shadow fleet” used to transport oil while evading Western restrictions, as well as on related financial networks and defence sector entities.

Military support and Patriot production license

Leaders agreed to “increase the delivery of air defence capabilities, additional systems and interceptors, and long‑range capabilities” to Ukraine. President Zelenski pressed Trump directly for a license to manufacture US‑designed Patriot air defence systems and missiles inside Ukraine. Afterwards, he said, “President Trump supports this idea,” but added, “I hope when he gives a positive answer, it means yes.” The joint statement noted the G7 is “ready to consider” granting licences to boost Ukraine’s own military production. Zelenski later wrote on X: “The priorities are clear: more air defence missiles along with missiles to produce them, a winter support package, and redoubling pressure on Russia.”

“We all believe the war must end. We all believe Russia has no will to do so.”

Winter resilience and reconstruction

Germany, Japan, Canada, and other allies pledged fuel supplies and support for defending energy infrastructure to help Ukraine survive the coming winter. France will take charge of reconstructing the Chernobyl nuclear plant’s sarcophagus, while Swiss experts will study restoration of the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra monastery, which Ukraine says was bombed by Russian drones on the eve of the summit. The United Kingdom announced it would supply enriched uranium for Ukrainian nuclear plants.

Trump’s diplomatic pivot

Trump told reporters at Évian that Russia should negotiate and acknowledged heavy casualties on both sides. “I will do everything I can to stop the war,” he said. The shift comes after a Sunday birthday call with Putin and Zelenski in which they discussed a future trip to Moscow by US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Trump’s son‑in‑law. Zelenski went further, urging the G7 to invite Putin to the summit itself, seeing a rare moment with all potential parties present.

“Russia has to reach an agreement with Ukraine. It has lost an enormous number of people, and Ukraine too.”