European Commission representative Anita Hipper made a statement on May 26 regarding the situation surrounding Russian shelling of Ukraine and possible further actions by the European Union. She emphasized that Russia is not interested in peace negotiations and has conducted yet another massive attack aimed at innocent victims, including children. According to Hipper, ballistic missiles and over 250 drones clearly demonstrate Russia’s lack of desire for peace, thus pressure should be increased and military-defense support for Ukraine should be enhanced.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Discussion of the Sanctions Package and EU Reaction
The official did not specify whether work on the 18th sanctions package, which was announced on May 16, would be accelerated. This package includes a ban on both “Nord Streams,” the addition of Russian vessels to blacklists, and disconnection from the SWIFT system for new Russian banks. Hipper noted that “work in this direction is ongoing,” and did not clarify whether the EU is ready to act independently without U.S. support in implementing additional sanctions.
She also highlighted the need to increase pressure on Russia to encourage the achievement of peace.
“We need to increase pressure on Russia so that it truly wants peace”
Overall, over the last three nights of May 24, 25, and 26, Russia carried out a record number of attacks with drones and missiles of various types. As a result of one such attack on the night of May 25, 12 people were killed, and over 60 were injured. The head of the EU’s foreign policy service, Josep Borrell, noted in a comment that Russian actions aim to inflict even more suffering and destruction on Ukraine.
“It is horrifying to see children among the innocent victims, injured and killed. My thoughts are with the families today,” said Borrell. He emphasized that the strongest international pressure on Russia is needed to stop the war.