**Ukraine Pushes EU to Impose Harsher Sanctions on Russia**
In a move aimed at increasing economic pressure on Moscow, Ukraine is set to present the European Union with a package of proposals next week. These recommendations aim to strengthen sanctions against Russia, according to Reuters.
The proposal comes as US President Donald Trump continues to refuse to impose additional sanctions on Russia despite its refusal to accept a 30-day ceasefire. The White House has reportedly told The New York Times that Trump is hesitant to adopt further sanctions due to potential business and trade opportunities with Moscow.
Ukraine’s white paper, which Reuters obtained, highlights the need for the EU to take a leading role in imposing sanctions on Russia. This move follows Trump’s previous statement that the US would join partners in imposing “further sanctions” if Russia failed to agree to an unconditional ceasefire.
The proposed sanctions package includes measures such as:
* Speeding up the seizure of frozen Russian assets and using them to support Ukraine
* Targeting foreign companies that assist Russia through technology use
* Imposing secondary sanctions on those who purchase Russian oil
Ukraine’s push for harsher sanctions comes as EU members consider implementing an 18th package against Russia. This move has been echoed by Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys, who urged the EU to target Russia’s energy exports and financial institutions.
President Volodymyr Zelensky also emphasized the need for additional sanctions in his evening address on May 20, calling for measures targeting Russian oil, the tanker fleet, and all their energy infrastructure that finances the war.
In its pitch to the EU next week, Kyiv will also encourage the bloc to make decisions on future sanctions through a majority vote, not unanimous decision. This move aims to prevent countries like Hungary and Slovakia from blocking previous sanction packages.
The EU is shifting its focus toward enforcing sanctions against Russia and building defense partnerships, with resources being redirected to match those priorities, according to Politico. This shift reflects the bloc’s growing commitment to supporting Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.
**What it means**
Ukraine’s proposal highlights the need for a unified approach to dealing with Russia’s actions. The EU must consider implementing measures that target Russia’s energy exports and financial institutions.
The proposed sanctions package aims to increase economic pressure on Moscow, making it more difficult for Russia to continue its military campaign in Ukraine.
The shift in focus within the EU toward enforcing sanctions against Russia reflects the bloc’s growing commitment to supporting Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.
