Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiga stated that Russia is rejecting any effective peace initiatives in response to yet another massive strike on Ukraine that occurred on Tuesday night.
This is reported by Київ24
“Russia dismisses any meaningful peace efforts and must face new, devastating sanctions. Right now. There is no more time to wait,” the diplomat urged.
Priority Areas for New Sanctions
Sybiga emphasized the need to focus new sanctions on the most vulnerable sectors of the Russian economy. He identified the energy sector, particularly the reduction of the upper price limit on oil, the banking system, and the introduction of secondary sanctions.
He stressed that the restrictive measures aim not only to support Ukraine in its struggle against the aggressor. According to him, such economic tools are also designed to protect the interests of Ukraine’s international partners, as sanctions deprive the Russian military machine of funding, which poses a threat not only to Ukraine but also to other countries.
EU Strengthens Restrictions Against Russia
As part of the 18th sanctions package against Russia, the European Union plans to impose new restrictions on nine individuals and 33 legal entities. The main goal of this new sanctions package is to reduce Russia’s energy revenues and its ability to develop its military-industrial complex.
Sources report that the EU is also considering the possibility of disconnecting more than 20 Russian banks from the international banking system SWIFT. Additionally, discussions are underway to lower the price cap on Russian oil from $60 to $45 per barrel, as well as the potential for a complete ban on the use of the “Nord Stream” pipeline.
The Foreign Minister emphasized that alongside sanctions, it is important to continue strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities, particularly through additional supplies of air defense systems.