EU and Britain Forge Ahead with New Sanctions on Russia, Unfazed by Trump's Influence

BRUSSELS/LONDON, May 20 (Reuters) – On Tuesday, the EU and the UK rolled out fresh sanctions against Russia, acting independently of the U.S. This move came right after President Trump’s conversation with Vladimir Putin didn’t yield any commitment for a ceasefire in Ukraine.

The new measures specifically target Russia’s “shadow fleet” of oil tankers and financial entities that have been helping Moscow sidestep existing sanctions related to the ongoing conflict.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed his recognition on Telegram, stating that these sanctions are crucial for holding war perpetrators accountable.

Interestingly, Washington did not announce any immediate actions in response to these new sanctions despite European leaders urging them to take part. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul emphasized during an EU meeting that they expect Russia to agree to an unconditional ceasefire. He noted that as there was no acceptance from Moscow, it was necesary for Europe to respond accordingly.

Trump mentioned he was considering various options but didn’t provide specifics as he left a Capitol Hill meeting. The first direct talks between Russia and Ukraine in over three years took place last Friday at Trump’s request but ended without agreement due to conditions set by moscow deemed unacceptable by Ukrainian representatives.

Ukraine is open to an immediate ceasefire suggested by Trump; however, Russia insists on preliminary discussions first. European leaders argue this indicates Putin’s unwillingness to end hostilities after initiating the invasion in 2022.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen communicated with Zelenskiy about preparing additional sanctions aimed at increasing pressure on Russia for a ceasefire. She shared her thoughts on social media platform X about intensifying efforts against Moscow.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova responded firmly against what she termed ultimatums from Europe. Following his call with Trump, Putin indicated readiness for future peace discussions but stated it was now up to Kyiv.

european nations have been actively trying to convince the U.S. governance of the need for joint action against russian aggression. Leaders from Britain, France, Germany, and Poland recently visited Kyiv and were seen speaking with Trump while including Zelenskiy via speakerphone.

In anticipation of further negotiations if a ceasefire is rejected by Russia, several European officials reached out again before Trump’s call with Putin urging him towards imposing more stringent measures together.

Brussels and London remain hopeful about swaying Washington into action as they push back against what they see as Putin’s imperial ambitions. French Foreign minister jean-Noel Barrot remarked on their collective effort while British Foreign Minister David Lammy stressed that delays would only strengthen their resolve in supporting Ukraine through defensive means and targeted sanctions aimed at crippling Putin’s military operations.

These latest sanctions focus heavily on disrupting shipping routes used by russia for oil exports while attempting to bypass a $60 per barrel price cap set by G7 nations designed to limit Russian revenue streams amidst falling global prices this year.

Trump had previously indicated both countries were ready for negotiations; however, he acknowledged it would be a lengthy process ahead.