Brussels shoots down talk of softening sanctions over Ukraine ceasefire

The European Union has categorically denied reports suggesting it might ease sanctions on Russia in the event of a ceasefire as part of a diplomatic resolution to the conflict in Ukraine.

During a briefing in Brussels, European Commission spokesperson Arianna Podesta dismissed such media leaks as "pure speculation," Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

Responding to inquiries about a Sky News report that the EU was considering relaxing restrictions contingent upon a ceasefire and full compliance, Podesta reaffirmed the bloc’s firm stance. She emphasized that the EU remains committed to maintaining full sanctions pressure on Russia and highlighted that 18 sanction packages have already been adopted, with a 19th currently in preparation.

To recall, Sky News reported that Ukraine's allies are evaluating a progressive easing of sanctions on Russia if a complete ceasefire can be agreed.

The sources added that the plan is for the sanctions to be reimplemented if any violations occur.

They hope that a 15-day ceasefire can be reached immediately (the sanctions will still be in place for this period of time), before a more structured pause in fighting in Ukraine can take hold.

Separately, Italian government sources said that they'll push Donald Trump to involve Europe in his discussions with Vladimir Putin over Ukraine when they speak via video call.

"He's been asking European countries to invest more on military spending, so we must be involved in these decisions", an Italian diplomat explained.

The sources added during the call Italy will underline the need of clear military, economic and political guarantees for Ukraine.

By Vafa Guliyeva