If the Ukraine ceasefire is not lifted, the European Union will consider imposing additional sanctions against Russia. This was stated by a European Commission spokesperson during a press conference, in response to journalistic questions, BTA reports.
“We are working with full commitment to increase pressure on Russia“, the spokesperson stressed, adding that the EU is in constant contact with its international partners, including the United States, for coordinated action against Moscow.
“Our main goal remains to achieve unanimity among member states on all proposals for sanctions. Only then would we consider alternative approaches“, he further specified.
The spokesperson stated that recent years have clearly shown that Russian President Vladimir Putin cannot be trusted. According to him, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accepted an unconditional ceasefire and now the responsibility lies entirely in Russia's hands.
Regarding the lack of an official response from Moscow to the proposal for a ceasefire and direct negotiations, the EC representative commented that Putin may have been surprised by Zelensky's readiness for a personal meeting.
“We expect the two leaders to meet face to face on Thursday“, the spokesman said, without providing further details on the location and format of the possible talks.