Ukraine Responds to U.S. Demarche After Novorossiysk Strike Impacts American Interests

Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States, Olha Stefanishyna, confirmed that the Ukrainian government recently received a formal diplomatic message, known as a demarche, from the U.S. State Department following Ukrainian strikes on the Russian port of Novorossiysk. The attacks reportedly affected American economic interests in Kazakhstan, as much of Kazakhstan’s oil exports transit through Novorossiysk.

Speaking on the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, Stefanishyna clarified that the U.S. communication focused specifically on protecting American economic interests rather than urging Kyiv to stop targeting Russian energy infrastructure. She emphasized that Washington’s outreach was related to the impact on U.S. business interests connected to Kazakhstan’s oil exports, not to limit Ukraine’s military operations against Russian facilities.

The U.S. State Department has not yet publicly commented on the matter. Stefanishyna noted that the situation underscored Ukraine’s need to strengthen long-term economic partnerships with the United States. According to her, expanding American economic involvement in Ukraine would serve as a powerful security guarantee amid the ongoing war with Russia.

As Ukraine continues to seek a diplomatic resolution, recent peace talks in Geneva failed to achieve a breakthrough. Despite challenges, Stefanishyna said Ukraine does not feel abandoned by the United States, even as President Donald Trump’s administration scales back certain military assistance. She expressed gratitude for Trump’s personal engagement in efforts to end the war.

The ambassador also urged Congress to advance a comprehensive sanctions bill targeting Russia, building on previous measures against major Russian oil companies such as Lukoil and Rosneft. She predicted strong bipartisan support and expressed confidence that additional sanctions could further restrict Russia’s ability to finance its war.

Ukraine and the United States remain engaged in ongoing discussions aimed at increasing economic pressure on Moscow while reinforcing long-term strategic ties.