**EU to Impose New Sanctions on Russia Over Ukraine Peace Talks Breakdown**
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called for new sanctions against Russia following the breakdown of peace talks between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul. The EU is preparing a new package of sanctions that would include measures targeting the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines, additional listings of vessels from Russia’s shadow fleet, a lower oil price cap, and sanctions on Russia’s financial sector.
**Russia Refuses to Engage in Meaningful Talks**
The peace talks in Istanbul ended with little progress, despite being proposed by the Kremlin. President Vladimir Putin failed to attend the talks, sending only lower-ranking aides instead. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had agreed to meet with Putin, but Russia’s absence was seen as a sign that Moscow remains unwilling to engage in meaningful negotiations.
**EU Frustrated with Lack of Progress**
Von der Leyen’s remarks echoed earlier warnings from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who said that if Russia failed to show real progress in peace talks, the EU would push for significant tightening of sanctions. The EU is frustrated with Russia’s continued aggression and refusal to engage in meaningful talks.
**US Senate Prepares Response**
In Washington, the US Senate is preparing its own response to Russia’s actions. Republican lawmakers have advanced a bill that includes sweeping measures such as 500% tariffs on countries that continue to buy Russian energy products. At least 72 senators reportedly support the bill, despite growing frustration among allies.
**Ukraine Blames Russia for Undermining Peace Talks**
Ukraine has blamed Russia for undermining the expected peace talks in Istanbul by demanding a one-on-one meeting, excluding Turkish or US officials, at the last minute. The move was seen as an attempt to sabotage the talks and avoid making concessions.
**EU Sanctions Package Aims to Close Loopholes**
The EU sanctions package aims to close loopholes and prevent future attempts to revive Russian energy exports to Europe. Nord Stream 2 was never activated, and Nord Stream 1 ceased operation after suspected sabotage in 2022. The move is seen as a symbolic step to increase pressure on Russia.
**Commentary: Time for Toughest Sanctions Yet**
As the situation in Ukraine continues to deteriorate, it’s time for the EU and US to impose their toughest sanctions yet on Russia. The failure of peace talks and Russia’s continued aggression demand a strong response from the international community. The new sanctions package is a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done to hold Russia accountable for its actions.
**Timeline: Key Dates in Ukraine-Russia Conflict**
* May 16: Ukrainian and Russian officials meet for first direct negotiations since 2022
* May 16: EU prepares to impose new sanctions on Russia over peace talks breakdown
* June: NATO summit to discuss increased military presence in Eastern Europe
**Sources:**
* Kyiv Independent
* European Commission
* US Senate
* Turkish state news agency Anadolu
