**Western Leaders Must Be Cautious of Russia’s Demands**
As the conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues, Western leaders must be careful not to grant premature concessions to Moscow. In an opinion piece for The Guardian, Andriy Yermak, the head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office, warned against lifting aviation sanctions on Russia.
Yermak pointed out that while Moscow’s demands may seem simple and easy to fulfill, they actually mask a deeper political and military advantage for Russian President Vladimir Putin. By easing these restrictions, Western leaders would be emboldening Putin to continue his war efforts and undermining the chance for a just and lasting peace.
**The Blurred Lines Between Private and Public Sector in Russia**
Yermak argued that aviation sanctions are not only symbolic but also practical barriers against Russian aggression. He noted that intelligence data indicates that Russian airlines and airports are involved in circumventing sanctions and transporting military goods and personnel. This blurring of the lines between private and public sectors in Russia’s war economy makes it difficult to distinguish between civilian and military activities.
**The Risk of Relieving Domestic Pressure on Putin**
Easing aviation restrictions would relieve domestic pressure on the Kremlin, allowing Putin to continue his aggressive policies without consequence. As Yermak noted, this would embolden Putin to prolong the war and undermine efforts towards a peaceful resolution.
**U.S. Leadership Must Be Cautious**
In contrast to President Donald Trump’s statement that sanctions will not be lifted until a peace deal is reached, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has hinted at potential limited relief as part of an eventual agreement. Western leaders must be cautious not to give in to Moscow’s demands too quickly, lest they embolden Putin and undermine efforts towards a just and lasting peace.
**Ukraine Demands a Complete Ceasefire**
President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed Russia’s proposed “humanitarian” ceasefire as another attempt at manipulation. Ukraine continues to demand a complete and unconditional 30-day ceasefire as the first step towards meaningful peace negotiations. Western leaders must remain committed to supporting Ukraine’s efforts towards a peaceful resolution.
As Yermak warned, “Accepting it would enable a regime that has repeatedly shown intent to prolong its war of aggression and undermine this chance for a just, fair and lasting peace.”
