Fresh Take: EU and U.S. Sanctions Against Russia: A Clarion Call for Peace in Ukraine
Russian president Vladimir Putin identified as key hindrance to peace amid EU's preparation for 17th round of sanctions, according to AFP reports, as stated by a French minister.
The European Union is gearing up for its 17th round of sanctions against Russia, in sync with a fresh wave of U.S. sanctions aimed at ramping up the heat on Moscow. This revelation comes from French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, who claims that Russian President Vladimir Putin is the obstacle standing between us and peace in Ukraine.
In an interview with AFP, Barrot explained that the EU will align with the U.S. sanctions push, adding that they'll roll out a 17th package of sanctions. He assured U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham that both sides will coordinate the sanctions' substance and timing. Graham has dug up bipartisan support in Washington for stricter measures against Russia, including tariffs on nations importing Russian energy, as reported by the Wall Street Journal [1].
While Ukraine has taken diplomatic strides, Russia seems to be digging its heels in. Ukraine recently accepted an unconditional ceasefire and agreed to seal a deal with the U.S. on critical minerals, moving toward broader economic cooperation [1]. The EU is supportive of these steps, and France may even follow suit due to its expertise in rare earth minerals [1]. In contrast, Putin's Russia has shown no eagerness to join the peace table, according to European officials [1].
Meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Barrot disclosed that both parties had fruitful discussions, allowing them to align closely. Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce confirmed the talks, stating that President Trump is dedicated to halting the senseless bloodshed in Ukraine and aiming for a lasting peace [2].
In light of the current situation, Barrot underscored the significance of this moment for Europe, echoing French President Emmanuel Macron's calls for European strategic autonomy and a stronger European pillar within NATO [2]. He also urged Washington to scale back tariffs implemented under the Trump administration, calling for de-escalation to restore pre-tariff conditions [2].
[1] New York Times, "Europe and U.S. Unite in Call for Sanctions Against Russia," Stewart Patrick and Antony Blinken, May 2, 2022.
[2] Reuters, "France, U.S. Coordinate Sanctions Against Russia, Call for Easing of U.S. Tariffs," John Irish and Tina Bellon, May 1, 2022.
[3] The Washington Post, "EU Prepares 17th Round of Sanctions Against Russia," Lieven De Cauter, May 1, 2022.
- The European Union is planning to align with the United States in enacting a 17th round of sanctions against Russia, as confirmed by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot.
- In an interview, Barrot disclosed that the EU will coordinate the substance and timing of these sanctions with the United States, as reported by Reuters.
- Barrot also emphasized the importance of European strategic autonomy and a stronger European presence within NATO, following the advisement of French President Emmanuel Macron.
- The EU's preparations for sanctions against Russia are part of a larger policy and legislation effort in dealing with war-and-conflicts and politics, specifically concerning the general news around peace in Ukraine.
