The European Union hopes to approve its 18th round of sanctions against Russia on Wednesday. The agreement was delayed by a month because of Slovakia, whose pro-Russian authorities are unhappy with the EU’s decision to cut off Russian gas by 2028 completely and are demanding compensation.
The 18th round will slightly tighten the existing sanctions against buyers and transporters of Russian oil and oil products, as well as Russian banks and companies in China and Belarus.
“We are increasing the pressure on Russia. Our goal is obvious: we call for a full and unconditional ceasefire for at least 30 days,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said, presenting the 18th round.
“Russia must come to the negotiating table with a serious offer. As long as it does not show such willingness, we will continue to increase the pressure.”
