European Union prepares new sanctions package against Russia – von der Leyen

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has said that the EU is preparing a new package of sanctions against Russia.

Source: statement by von der Leyen posted on the official European Commission website

Details: The statement noted that the EU is working on every step that will ultimately put an end to the bloodshed. The first step towards peace should be a lasting ceasefire.

Quote: "Russia must feel sustained pressure to come to the negotiating table – not for show, but for results. To this end, Europe will continue to raise the cost of Russia's war. We have a new sanctions package in preparation. And we have immobilised Russian assets in the EU over the long term."

Details: Von der Leyen said the second step towards peace should be reliable and credible security guarantees for Ukraine.

Quote: "These security guarantees must be underpinned by firm principles. We will respect the decisions Ukraine makes for itself. Decisions on territories are for Ukraine to take – and Ukraine alone. Likewise, issues affecting the EU and NATO will be discussed among the EU and NATO members. In short: nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine. Nothing about the EU without the EU. Nothing about NATO without NATO."

Details: The third point concerns the economic reconstruction of Ukraine. Von der Leyen stressed that Europe remains a reliable partner.

Quote: "Ukraine's needs are both immense and urgent. We are committed to the reconstruction and the future prosperity of Ukraine. Europe will remain its strongest and most reliable partner. We have proposed to cover two-thirds of Ukraine's financing needs for the next two years, around €90 billion. So the discussions this week at the European Council will be decisive."

Background:

• Leaders of several European countries and EU institutions issued a joint statement welcoming "significant progress on President Trump's efforts to secure a just and lasting peace in Ukraine".
• Kaja Kallas, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, said that the European Union is not currently considering lifting sanctions against Russia. On the contrary, it believes pressure on Russia should be increased.

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