Ukraine is preparing to appeal to the European Union next week, urging it to increase pressure on the Russian Federation by implementing stricter and more independent sanctions. This initiative has arisen against the backdrop of the cautious stance of the United States regarding new restrictions against Russia.
This is reported by Business • Media
Ukraine Proposes Decisive Actions on Russian Assets and Oil Sanctions
In a comprehensive 40-page package of recommendations being prepared by Ukraine, a number of important proposals are outlined. In particular, it discusses the confiscation of assets from sanctioned individuals, with the subsequent transfer of these funds to Ukraine. Additionally, the document calls for sanctions against foreign companies involved in assisting the Russian Federation using technologies to circumvent restrictions, as well as the implementation of secondary sanctions against buyers of Russian oil. Among the potential targets of such sanctions could be India and China.
Ukraine also insists that the EU consider transitioning to a majority principle when making decisions regarding sanctions, to prevent individual countries from blocking important initiatives. In the so-called “White Paper,” the Ukrainian side convincingly argues for the necessity of implementing such changes.
Positions of Ukraine, the US, and the EU on Further Sanctions
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha emphasized the importance of lowering the price cap on Russian oil to $30 per barrel, as well as increasing sanctions pressure on the financial infrastructure of the Russian Federation, including the Central Bank of Russia, during a recent visit to Brussels on May 20.
The US is currently avoiding new sanctions against Russia, as President Donald Trump believes that Moscow might refuse to engage in peace negotiations in such a case.
Meanwhile, discussions continue in the United States regarding further actions. President Donald Trump expresses concerns that new restrictions could negatively impact the prospects for peace negotiations and future business cooperation with Russia. However, Secretary of State Marco Rubio does not rule out the possibility of passing a bill by Senator Lindsey Graham, which would impose “draconian” sanctions in the event of a complete failure of the negotiation process by the Russian Federation.
In turn, European countries are expecting the US Congress to approve new sanctions against Russia, which would entail further lowering the maximum price on Russian oil and increasing financial pressure on the Russian regime.