The European Union and the United Kingdom have rolled out a fresh round of Russia sanctions, targeting Moscow’s covert oil network and financial systems. These measures come without support from the United States, a day after President Donald Trump’s call with Russian President Vladimir Putin failed to secure a ceasefire in Ukraine.
Focus on Oil and Finance
The new sanctions zero in on Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet”—a collection of tankers used to bypass oil price caps—and financial entities helping Moscow evade past sanctions. Both London and Brussels emphasized their commitment to increasing pressure on the Kremlin.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the move, calling it a meaningful step against the aggressors. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stressed the need for continued action, saying, “We expect one thing from Russia—an immediate ceasefire without preconditions.”
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No Ceasefire Breakthrough
Despite Trump’s push for talks, direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine last week ended without progress. Ukraine expressed willingness for an unconditional ceasefire, while Russia insisted on preliminary negotiations. European leaders argue this proves Moscow lacks genuine interest in peace.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius echoed the sentiment, stating, “Putin is clearly playing for time.”
EU Seeks US Support
European leaders are frustrated by the lack of immediate action from Washington. Germany, France, the UK, and Poland have actively urged Trump to align with the sanctions plan. Earlier this month, they visited Kyiv and even spoke with Trump via speakerphone alongside Zelensky.
On the eve of Trump’s latest call with Putin, they renewed their appeal. While the US has yet to act, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said further sanctions are being prepared.
Russia Responds with Defiance
Russia rejected the new sanctions. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said Russia won’t submit to ultimatums. Following his call with Trump, Putin claimed readiness to work on a peace memorandum, suggesting, “The ball is in Kyiv’s court.”
Britain and the EU are also considering tightening the existing $60-per-barrel price cap on Russian oil, aiming to reduce the Kremlin’s war revenue further.
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