Europe ramps up sanctions as Zelensky pushes for Putin talks
The spokesperson for the European Commission, Paula Pinho, suggested that Vladimir Putin might be surprised by Volodymyr Zelensky's readiness to meet in person. This comment came in the context of the Russian leader's refusal to agree to an immediate ceasefire and engage in talks with the Ukrainian president.
The European Commission is considering imposing additional sanctions on Russia. After Russia's refusal to agree to a ceasefire, the foreign ministers of France and Germany advocated for increased pressure through new sanctions. On Wednesday, member states are set to preliminarily accept the 17th sanctions package. The head of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, proposed imposing sanctions on the Nord Stream 2 consortium.
Pinho said that EU can confirm that in the absence of a ceasefire, as informed by several leaders, Vice President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas and President von der Leyen themselves are considering the possibility of imposing further sanctions.
Zelensky ready for talks
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, expressed his readiness to negotiate with Vladimir Putin, proposing a meeting in Turkey. Zelensky emphasized that he wants to talk directly with Putin, not through other representatives of the Russian side.
Pinho emphasized that is why EC members eagerly await President Putin's readiness to meet with President Zelensky on Thursday.
The European Commission spokesperson expressed hope that a meeting between the leaders would take place, marking the first such event since the beginning of the war.
Expert talks in Istanbul
On May 15, expert-level technical talks will take place in Istanbul between Russia and Ukraine. Konstantin Kosachev, the Vice Chairman of the Federation Council, highlights their significance. The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, expects Russia to agree to a complete and permanent ceasefire.
The international community, including the leaders of Ukraine, Poland, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, is exerting pressure on Russia to agree to a ceasefire.
