EU vows to keep up sanctions pressure on Russia until lasting peace in Ukraine

The European Union has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining economic pressure on Russia through a continued regime of sanctions until a just and enduring peace is achieved in Ukraine.

Arianna Podesta, Deputy Chief Spokesperson for the European Commission, made the declaration during a press briefing in Brussels, Caliber.Az reports, citing Ukrainian media.

She emphasized that the sanctions serve a dual purpose: curtailing Russia’s capacity to prosecute its war efforts against Ukraine, while simultaneously compelling Russian President Vladimir Putin to engage in meaningful negotiations.

“The sanctions have a dual effect: they limit Russia’s ability to wage war against Ukraine while simultaneously pushing Putin to come to the negotiating table. And we see that it works… Europe will continue to maintain this pressure until we achieve a fair and lasting peace for Ukraine,” Podesta stated.

The spokesperson also revealed that maintaining sanctions pressure on Russia was a key subject at a recent international meeting held in Washington, underscoring the coordinated approach between the EU and its allies in confronting the ongoing conflict.

Podesta further noted that the European Commission is actively preparing the 19th package of sanctions against Russia, with the draft expected to be finalized by early September. This latest sanctions installment is anticipated to reinforce existing restrictions and introduce new measures aimed at further constraining Russia’s economic and military capabilities.

By Vafa Guliyeva