'Putin has to face reality': France backs US stance, urges EU to ramp up pressure
Photo: Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France (Getty Images)
The European Union (EU) and the United States have united, and as a result, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin must face reality, according to French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot quoted by The Guardian.
Speaking to reporters, Barrot expressed hope that Washington's new rhetoric and additional EU sanctions would force Putin "to face the facts: he has gone too far and he is now at an impasse."
He also called on EU leaders to support the 18th package of EU sanctions today in order to maintain momentum following yesterday’s threats from Trump "apply very strong pressure on Vladimir Putin."
US efforts to end the war in Ukraine
In recent months, the United States has stepped up diplomatic efforts to stop the war in Ukraine. American representatives have held a series of separate meetings with both the Ukrainian and Russian sides. During one of these initiatives, Washington proposed a complete ceasefire — Ukraine immediately agreed, while Russia responded with counter-demands. Despite this, Kyiv and Moscow have returned to direct negotiations and have already held several rounds of dialogue.
For his part, Trump has significantly changed his rhetoric on the war since returning to power. The day before, he expressed dissatisfaction with Putin’s position, threatened a new package of sanctions against Russia, and announced the delivery of additional Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine.
At the same time, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte addressed the leadership of Brazil, China, and India, calling on them to influence the Kremlin and urge a cessation of hostilities if they wish to avoid secondary sanctions.
