**EU Tightens Sanctions on Russia Amid Ukraine Attack**
On May 25, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul called for additional European Union sanctions against Russia. This move comes after a large-scale attack by Russia on Ukraine that left 12 people dead and 79 injured.
In an interview with ARD, Wadephul stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin is not interested in peace and wants to continue the war. As a result, the EU will agree on additional sanctions to prevent this. The attack saw 69 missiles and 298 drones launched by Russia overnight, according to Ukraine’s Air Force.
**Ukraine Allies Rally Behind Sanctions**
The EU has already approved 17th sanctions package against Russia, targeting their “shadow fleet.” However, it seems that more action is being taken as Ukraine’s European allies continue to tighten sanctions against Russia. Despite a commitment from U.S. President Donald Trump, no new U.S. sanctions have been imposed so far.
This lack of action has sparked some concern among international leaders. Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna called for additional economic pressure on Moscow following the attack, stating that Putin will continue his actions until the pressure becomes unbearable.
**Ukraine to Pitch Recommendations for Further Sanctions**
Next week, Ukraine is set to pitch a larger number of recommendations to the European Union on how the bloc can continue to ramp up economic pressure on Moscow through sanctions. This comes as Reuters reported on May 21 that the EU is close to restricting the Nord Stream 2 pipeline in a new round of sanctions.
**Trump’s Response Falls Short**
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has faced criticism for his response to the attack. Special envoy Keith Kellogg called for an end to hostilities, stating that “the indiscriminate killing of women and children at night in their homes is a clear violation of the 1977 Geneva Peace Protocols designed to protect innocents.” However, no new U.S. sanctions have been imposed so far.
It has been reported that Trump refuses to impose sanctions on Russia as it may hinder future business and trade opportunities with Moscow. This has led some to question whether the U.S. is taking a strong enough stance against Russian aggression.
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