EU Announces Tough New Sanctions Against Russia

EU Intensifies Sanctions Against Russia Amid Ukraine War Brussels, Belgium – June 10, 2025 – European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen today announced a significant escalation of sanctions against Russia, citing the ongoing war in Ukraine and Russia's unwillingness to negotiate a peaceful resolution. The announcement follows weeks of diplomatic attempts and President Zelenskyy's offer of an unconditional ceasefire, all of which have been ignored by Russia. "Russia continues to bring death and destruction to Ukraine," von der Leyen stated. "Their goal is not peace; it is to impose the rule of might." She emphasized the severe impact of existing sanctions on the Russian economy, noting that "210 billion euros of reserves of the Central Bank of Russia are immobilized." Furthermore, she pointed out that Russia's oil and gas revenues have fallen by almost 80% compared to the pre-war period. Von der Leyen outlined the EU's plan to introduce a robust 18th sanctions package, targeting the Russian energy and banking sectors. The EU is also widening export bans and controls, and strengthening anti-circumvention measures to prevent sanctions evasion. "This war must end; we need a real ceasefire," she declared, adding that Russia must come to the negotiating table with a serious proposal. "In short, Russia's economy is limited to a war economy, sacrificing future prospects." The announcement signifies a major step in the EU's response to the ongoing conflict and underscores the international community's determination to pressure Russia to seek a peaceful resolution.