Putin's absence at talks underscores the need for new sanctions

Upon arriving at the European Political Community summit in Tirana, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer commented on Vladimir Putin's absence in Istanbul at the negotiations concerning the war in Ukraine. "This is yet more evidence that Putin is not serious about peace," Starmer said.

He underscored the need for close collaboration with allied nations to introduce new sanctions against Russia. He noted that achieving full agreement among partners is a key objective they are actively pursuing. He stressed the dual goal of securing a ceasefire while preparing coordinated sanctions in case diplomatic efforts fail.

The talks between delegations from the USA, Ukraine, and Turkey in Istanbul ended the war in Ukraine. Despite initial expectations, the meeting did not bring a breakthrough because neither Vladimir Putin nor the U.S. President attended.

For some time, it seemed possible that Putin and Zelenskyy would have a face-to-face conversation in Turkey. The Ukrainian president was ready for such a meeting, but the Russian leader did not decide to come to Istanbul.

The EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Vice-President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas, announced another sanctions package against Russia. On Wednesday, EU countries preliminarily accepted the 17th package, which includes sanctions on additional Russian ships from the so-called shadow fleet and provides restrictions against Russian prosecutors and judges involved in repressions against opposition figures Alexei Navalny and Vladimir Kara-Murza.