Russia Reaffirms Plans to Respond to EU Sanctions as EU Leaders Discuss New Measures
The official spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Maria Zakharova, stated that Moscow is preparing a measured response to forthcoming European Union sanctions. Her remarks were shared in a briefing with journalists, signaling that Russia intends to answer the next round of EU restrictions with clear and deliberate actions. This stance highlights Moscow’s ongoing posture of opposition to what it characterizes as illegitimate pressure from Western countries. The spokesperson emphasized that the sanctions were implemented without United Nations Security Council involvement and described the cross-border measures under consideration as lacking legitimacy as well. The message was that Russia will deliver a confirmed response to the next EU sanctions package, reflecting a broader pattern of Moscow signaling retaliation in response to Western curbs.
In another development, Ursula von der Leyen, who previously led the European Commission, noted that the 11th package of sanctions is supported by evidence indicating that more than 90 global companies have attempted to bypass existing restrictions. Her comments were made during remarks at an international forum in Doha, where economic and political topics were on the agenda. The claim underscores the European Union’s concern about evasion of sanctions and the willingness to impose further penalties if necessary to enforce compliance. Attribution: Reuters
Meanwhile, political leaders from Central Europe offered mixed assessments of the proposed measures. Prime Minister Viktor Orban of Hungary voiced skepticism about the impact of the 11th sanctions package, arguing that earlier rounds had not produced the expected outcomes. Orban suggested that the EU should consider the broader strategic consequences and the practical effectiveness of continuing with more punitive steps, highlighting a debate within Europe about the path forward in sanction policy. Attribution: Reuters
Additionally, French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna urged the European Union to proceed with a new 11th package of sanctions, aligning with discussions ahead of the EU summit scheduled for June. The call reflects ongoing disagreements among member states about timing, scope, and goals of sanctions against Russia, with officials weighing the balance between punitive measures and potential diplomatic leverage.