Today at 14:05
Ukraine expects the European Union to adopt a strong, effective sanctions package against Russia that maximizes economic pressure on the Kremlin rather than a watered-down compromise, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said, UATV English reports.
Speaking to reporters, Sybiha confirmed he will participate in the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Brussels on July 13, where ministers will discuss Russia’s war against Ukraine, strengthening European support, and preparations for winter.
According to the minister, the meeting will be divided into two sessions. The first will focus on securing the release of Ukrainian civilians held by Russia, while the second will address political issues, including sanctions, defense assistance, energy security, and Ukraine’s EU accession process.
“We will discuss sanctions, strengthening our defense capabilities, energy ahead of winter, and the opening of negotiating clusters on Ukraine’s path toward full European Union membership,” Sybiha said.
Commenting on reports that the EU’s 21st sanctions package could be adopted in a softened form, Sybiha rejected the idea of weaker measures.
“I don’t know what ‘lighter’ sanctions mean. I know what effective sanctions are. We insist on effective sanctions packages that make Russia’s economy burn under its feet, just as the ground burns from our long-range special sanctions,” he said, referring to Ukraine’s deep-strike campaign against Russian strategic targets.
The EU’s 21st sanctions package remains under discussion among member states, with diplomats seeking to finalize the measures in the coming days. Among the proposals being debated are new restrictions targeting Russia’s energy sector and additional measures aimed at tightening economic pressure on Moscow.
Read Also: EU Sanctions Can Force Putin to the Negotiating Table — Irish Finance Minister
