Sanctions are coming: it became known when the EU will introduce the 18th package
фотоколаж: facebook Служба зовнішньої розвідки України
Final consultations are underway in Brussels on the new, 18th package of EU sanctions against the Russian Federation, and a political decision may be made in the near future.
This was stated by the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaia Kallas, Liga.net reports.
“We are very, very close to an agreement. I hope that we will be able to reach a political agreement today,” Kallas said.
Commenting on the complexity of the negotiation process, she noted that the European Union unites 27 democratic countries, and therefore, decision-making always requires dialogue and compromises.
“Sometimes it’s not easy, but in the end we come to joint decisions – and that’s what matters,” the diplomat emphasized.
In particular, in order to reach agreements, it was necessary to seek a compromise even with more restrained governments, in particular with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who has repeatedly expressed skepticism about the EU’s sanctions policy.
Kallas also emphasized the need to coordinate sanctions policy with the United States.
“To bring peace closer, we must support Ukraine and at the same time put pressure on Russia. I hope that the US will also take measures – sanctions or tariffs – to increase pressure on the Russian Federation,” she added.
The content of the new package is not currently disclosed, but according to media reports, it may include expanded export controls, new restrictions against the Russian defense sector, as well as sanctions against individuals and legal entities involved in Russian aggression.
As a reminder, EU countries have made significant progress in agreeing on the 18th package of sanctions against Russia. The new sanctions provide for a reduction in the marginal price for Russian oil.
As reported, two members of the union: Slovakia and Malta , oppose the approval of the 18th package of EU sanctions against Russia.
At the same time, the administration of US President Donald Trump is considering the possibility of introducing new restrictive measures that could affect not only Russia, but also countries that maintain economic ties with it.
Also follow “Pryamim” on Facebook , Twitter , Telegram , and Instagram .