New EU sanctions against Russia: What Zelenskyy wants to see in 17th package
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Ukraine expects the EU's 17th sanctions package against Russia to target everything that funds the Russian war machine — including banks, oil, energy, metallurgy, and the shadow fleet, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated.
As President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported, he held a meeting today with European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
"I briefed them on today's talks in Istanbul. There must be increased pressure on Russia if it refuses to agree to a full and unconditional ceasefire. That's why I'm grateful for the preparation of the 17th sanctions package. We expect it to cover everything that fuels the Russian war machine — banks, oil, energy, metallurgy, and the so-called shadow fleet," the President said.
Special attention during the talks was given to Ukraine's path toward EU membership — particularly the possibility of swiftly opening negotiation clusters and strengthening trade cooperation.
"I am grateful for the support of Ukraine and for helping us move closer to a just peace," Zelenskyy emphasized.
EU sanctions against Russia
The previous round of EU sanctions against Russia — the 16th package — was adopted in February in response to Russia's ongoing military aggression against Ukraine. Since then, discussions have continued regarding the next round of sanctions.
Ukraine's European partners have signaled their readiness to tighten restrictions on Russia should it refuse to agree to a ceasefire. EU officials have stated they are considering the introduction of further sanctions.
On May 14, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that the European Union had agreed on the 17th package of sanctions against Russia.
Additionally, in recent days, European Commission spokesperson Paula Pinho stated that if President Vladimir Putin fails to attend peace talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Türkiye on May 15, Russia would face new sanctions.
