**European Leaders Call for Harsher Sanctions Against Russia**
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, European leaders are stepping up their efforts to put pressure on Russia. The 18th sanctions package against Russia is being prepared, and several European countries are calling for harsher penalties against Moscow.
Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys was among those who spoke out about the need for tougher sanctions. He said that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s continued refusal to accept a ceasefire proposal was “deception, disruption, distraction, and delay” tactics aimed at avoiding sanctions. Budrys emphasized that Europe must stop this vicious cycle by imposing new sanctions.
The EU has already adopted 17th package of sanctions against Russia on May 20, primarily targeting its oil tanker fleet. However, European leaders are now calling for further measures to target Russia’s energy exports, liquid natural gas (LNG), oil, and nuclear fuel exports as well as financial institutions.
**Energy Exports in the Crosshairs**
Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said on May 19 that the next package of restrictions is “already in motion.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky echoed similar points in his evening address on May 20, stating that the next sanctions package “is already being prepared.”
Zelensky specifically called for additional sanctions to be imposed on Russian oil, its tanker fleet, and all related energy infrastructure. He also requested that banks, financial schemes, and Russia’s military industry be targeted.
“This is a step in the right direction,” Zelensky said, referring to the adoption of the 17th sanctions package. “There should be as many sanctioning steps as necessary for Russia to become interested in peace and to feel the full price of its aggression and desire to prolong the war.”
**US Not Following Suit**
While European leaders are taking a firm stance against Russia, the United States is not following suit. Despite Russia’s refusal to cease fire, no new US sanctions have been imposed so far.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was critical of the lack of US action on sanctions. Several media outlets reported on May 20 that European leaders are frustrated with the lack of U.S. support for sanctions against Russia.
A senior European official told the New York Times that Trump “never seemed invested in joining sanctions on Russia.” The publication further reported, citing a White House official, that Trump refuses to impose sanctions on Russia as it may hinder future business and trade opportunities with Moscow.
**The Need for Action**
As tensions between Europe and Russia escalate, the need for action is becoming increasingly clear. Harsher sanctions against Russia are being called for by several European leaders, and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky is urging his European allies to take a firm stance against Moscow.
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