**UK Slaps New Sanctions on Russia as Tensions Rise**
The United Kingdom is set to unveil a fresh batch of sanctions against Russia, targeting the country’s banking and energy sectors. The move comes in response to Moscow’s rejection of a 30-day ceasefire proposal made by Ukraine and its European allies earlier this week.
On May 10, a joint statement from Ukraine, France, Germany, Poland, and the UK called for a 30-day truce between Russia and Ukraine. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin rebuffed the offer, instead inviting Ukraine to engage in direct talks with Moscow starting on May 15. The move was seen as a clear rejection of the ceasefire proposal.
The new sanctions package will specifically target actors supporting Russia’s “illegal invasion” of Ukraine. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy is set to unveil the details during a meeting of EU Foreign Ministers in London, which takes place ahead of a summit with EU leaders next week.
**European Alliance Backs 30-Day Ceasefire**
The proposal for a 30-day ceasefire has been backed by the United States, which first called for a complete month-long truce between Russia and Ukraine back in March. At the time, Kyiv agreed to the plan but Russia refused to accept an unconditional ceasefire, insisting that Ukraine give up all foreign military aid.
In recent days, U.S. President Donald Trump has urged both sides to hold peace talks in Istanbul on May 15. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has since agreed to participate, saying “there is no point in prolonging the killings” and vowing to meet with Putin in Turkey on Thursday.
**New Sanctions Package Expected**
European officials are expected to agree upon a new sanctions package against Russia, which will reportedly add over 100 vessels associated with Russia’s shadow fleet to the sanctions list. The move aims to target suspects linked to the use of chemical weapons in Ukraine.
The UK’s decision to impose fresh sanctions on Russia comes as tensions between the two countries continue to escalate. As the situation remains uncertain, it remains to be seen how these new measures will impact the conflict in Ukraine and relations between Moscow and Western nations.
In an interview with The Kyiv Independent, Dmytro Basmat, a senior news editor for the publication, noted that “the international community is increasingly taking a tough stance against Russia’s actions.” He added that “these sanctions are a clear signal of the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in this conflict.”
With tensions running high and diplomatic efforts underway, it remains to be seen how these new measures will impact the situation on the ground. One thing is certain: the world is watching closely as the situation continues to unfold.
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