**EU and US Coordinate Sanctions on Russia, Germany Supports Effort**
The German government has expressed support for the European Union’s newly proposed sanctions against Russia. The move comes as the EU coordinates with the United States to implement a package of measures aimed at pressuring Moscow into accepting an unconditional truce in Ukraine.
According to Stefan Cornelius, a spokesperson for the German government, the proposed sanctions will target the Nord Stream gas pipelines. “The federal government supports the elements that affect Nord Stream,” Cornelius said, adding that Washington’s participation in a potential sanctions package would be “very central.”
The new EU sanctions package is being coordinated with the US government and includes measures such as targeting the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines, additional listings of vessels from Russia’s shadow fleet, and lower oil price caps. The package also aims to sanction Russia’s financial sector.
**Russia Rejects Peace Talks**
The absence of Russian President Vladimir Putin from peace talks in Istanbul last week has been seen as a signal that Moscow remains unwilling to engage in meaningful negotiations with Ukraine and its international partners. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for new sanctions against Russia following the breakdown of talks.
Ukraine, along with leaders from the UK, France, Germany, and Poland, had proposed an unconditional 30-day ceasefire. However, Russia failed to accept this proposal, leading to increased pressure on Moscow to engage in peace talks.
**Nord Stream Pipelines in Focus**
Although Nord Stream 2 was never activated, and Nord Stream 1 ceased operations after suspected sabotage in 2022, sanctions on the pipelines would carry a symbolic value. They would also close loopholes and prevent future attempts to revive Russian energy exports to Europe.
The media has previously reported that pro-Moscow figures have contacted the Trump administration to resume the operation of the Nord Stream pipelines, a step that would require European nations to agree.
**US Senate Prepares Response**
In Washington, the US Senate is preparing its own response to Russia’s delays. The “Russian Sanctions Act of 2025” includes sweeping measures such as 500% tariffs on countries that continue to buy Russian energy products. At least 72 senators reportedly support the bill.
**European Leaders Pressure Trump**
Ahead of his planned phone conversation with Putin, European leaders are expected to call US President Donald Trump to pressure him to impose additional sanctions on Russia. The aim is to push Moscow toward a peace deal with Ukraine.
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