US halts intel sharing with EU on Russian sanctions evasion, media says
Photo: The EU no longer coordinates with the US on anti-Russian sanctions (Getty Images)
The European Union is facing a breakdown in cooperation with the United States on sanctions against Russia. All channels of communication between Brussels and Washington in the area of countering sanctions circumvention have been suspended, Suddeutsche Zeitung reports.
According to the news agency, after the change of power in the United States, the Donald Trump administration disbanded the KleptoCapture task force, which was engaged in tracking the assets of Russian oligarchs.
Previously, there was a constant exchange of data between American and European financial investigators, but it has now been suspended.
Despite public assurances of support for Ukraine, Europe doubts the readiness of the United States to join new sanctions.
At the same time, the EU is already preparing the 18th package of restrictions in response to Russia's latest attacks on Ukrainian cities.
According to Bundestag member Johann Wadephul, the West's reaction will be tough, but even he does not rule out that Washington may take a cautious stance.
The new sanctions are expected to deal an economic blow to Russia, but their effectiveness depends on the unity of action between the allies.
Germany already recognizes that coordination between the EU and the US has virtually ceased, and the G7 initiative to combat sanctions circumvention has lost momentum.
Trump did not rule out sanctions against Russia
The day before, US President Donald Trump sharply criticized Vladimir Putin for shelling Ukrainian cities and expressed his disappointment with the Kremlin's actions and the peace process.
He also confirmed that Washington is definitely considering new sanctions against Russia.
Later, Trump made another statement in his post, calling Putin absolutely crazy.
US President Donald Trump is considering imposing sanctions on Russia this week.
One of the sources said that the restrictions are not likely to include new banking sanctions, but that other options are being discussed to pressure Putin to make concessions at the negotiating table, including a 30-day ceasefire.
At the same time, the publication writes that Trump may decide not to impose new sanctions.
