**EU Tightens Screws on Russia with 17th Sanctions Package**
The European Union is set to adopt its 17th package of sanctions against Russia on May 20, in a move aimed at further isolating the country over its actions in Ukraine. The new restrictions primarily target Moscow’s shadow fleet of oil tankers, which has been accused of helping Russia evade international sanctions.
According to Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna, the EU’s next package of restrictions is already “in motion”. This suggests that the bloc is working on new measures to put additional pressure on Russia. The move comes as Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky praised the EU for its efforts to support Kyiv.
**Russia’s Continued Aggression**
Tsahkna, who made his comments on social media platform X, accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of continuing to pursue his goals of destroying Ukraine and redrawing Europe’s borders. The Estonian minister said that Putin will only stop when the cost of his actions becomes “unbearable”. The EU has been tightening sanctions against Russia since February 2022, but Moscow has refused to cease its attacks on Ukraine.
**US Fails to Impose New Sanctions**
The US, however, has not yet imposed new sanctions on Russia. Despite ongoing talks between the two countries, a recent call between Presidents Trump and Putin failed to produce an agreement on establishing a truce in Ukraine. The lack of progress in these negotiations is seen as a blow to efforts to bring an end to the conflict.
**Ukraine Stands Firm**
President Zelensky has rejected Russian demands that Ukraine withdraw its troops from territories it controls, saying that Kyiv will not compromise on this issue. Russia’s delegation in Istanbul put forward sweeping territorial demands, including the acceptance of the loss of Crimea and four eastern regions. The Ukrainian leader has made it clear that his country will not give up territory without a fight.
**The Importance of Independent Journalism**
As tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate, the importance of independent journalism becomes increasingly clear. By providing accurate and unbiased information, journalists can help keep the public informed about developments on the ground. The Kyiv Independent is one such publication that relies on reader support to continue its vital work.
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