EU ramps up pressure with new sanctions as Russia reels from inflation
The European Union is working on its 17th package of sanctions aimed at weakening Russia. Finland's Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen stresses that the sanctions are effective, and Russia is grappling with rising inflation.
What do you need to know?
- The European Union is preparing the 17th package of sanctions aimed at further undermining the Russian economy.
- Russia is dealing with significant inflation, a consequence of the sanctions, as emphasised by Finland's Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen.
- Sunday's attack on Sumy in Ukraine, which resulted in the deaths of 34 people, has been condemned by leaders from numerous countries, including the USA.
During a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg, Elina Valtonen highlighted that the European Union is stepping up its actions against Russia. The new 17th package of sanctions aims to further undermine the Russian economy, which is already battling high inflation.
The EU is developing the 17th package of sanctions
Finland's foreign minister emphasised that the EU needs a drop in oil prices right now because Russia is dependent on oil and gas exports. She highlighted that lower prices will impair its ability to conduct war and invest in the military industry.
Valtonen stressed that sanctions imposed on Russia over the past three years are having an impact. Inflation in Russia is rising, affecting the quality of life for its citizens. The Finnish politician expressed hope that Russians will take steps to transform their country into a true democracy. She also addressed the Sunday attack on Sumy.
In the Russian missile attack on Sumy, 34 people were killed, including two children. More than 117 people were injured - among them 15 children.
Valtonen assessed that Russian forces deliberately targeted civilian infrastructure and noted that the attack occurred shortly after the visit of US President's envoy Steve Witkoff to St. Petersburg, where he met with Vladimir Putin.
The minister emphasised that this shows that Russia completely disregards the peace process and has no respect for human life.
The Sunday missile attack on the Ukrainian city of Sumy sparked a wave of condemnation from leaders of many countries, including the European Union, France, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy. US President Donald Trump stated that the Russians made a mistake. This attack, as noted by Valtonen, demonstrates Russia's lack of respect for the peace process and human life.
