Riga pushes EU to approve 20th sanctions package against Russia

Latvia has urged the European Union to intensify pressure on Russia by swiftly adopting a new sanctions package and expanding support for Ukraine, according to remarks delivered at a meeting of the European Union Foreign Affairs Council in Luxembourg.

Artēms Uršuļskis, Parliamentary Secretary at Latvia’s Foreign Ministry, called for the immediate approval of the EU’s 20th sanctions package against Russia and the prompt preparation of additional restrictive measures. He stressed the importance of maintaining a strategy of sustained pressure and international isolation of Moscow, according to Latvian media reports.

Uršuļskis also emphasised the need to bolster support for Ukraine. He pointed to the urgent release of a €90 billion loan and suggested that military assistance through the European Peace Facility could be increased to €6.6 billion.

He underscored that credible security guarantees are essential for securing what he described as a “just and sustainable peace” in Ukraine. At the same time, he highlighted the continued role of the United States and EU member states in supporting Kyiv through humanitarian aid, assistance to refugees, and efforts to rebuild critical infrastructure.

The Latvian official further called for a stronger response to Russia’s actions targeting Ukrainian culture and cultural heritage, as well as an expansion of sanctions lists in response to destabilising activities.

Discussions at the meeting also covered the extension of sanctions linked to the situation in Moldova and the advancement of the EU enlargement process, including Ukraine’s prospects for integration.

By Tamilla Hasanova