The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaia Kallas, said today that new sanctions against Russia will likely be approved by the end of the week at the European Council meeting in Brussels, the Luxembourg press reported, quoted by BTA.
However, there will be no official decision today, Kallas told journalists in Luxembourg, where she is attending a meeting of European foreign ministers. The proposed package includes a ban on the import of Russian liquefied natural gas.
Regarding the upcoming meeting in Budapest between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Kallas expressed hope for a result. “We see President Trump's efforts for peace. We welcome these attempts, but Russia is not seeking peace alone. "It only understands force and negotiates only when it is pressured," she said.
Kallas stressed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky should engage in talks with Putin, as only they can reach an agreement. "The United States has the power to put pressure on Russia, and if it uses it, it would be positive," she added.
Regarding Putin's expected trip to Europe, the High Representative noted: "It is not nice to see someone wanted by the International Criminal Court coming to Europe. The question is whether it will have any effect."
Kallas stressed that Ukraine cannot simply surrender and warned that it would be dangerous for the international order if the aggressor gets what he wants without real peace talks.