Europe mulls fresh sanctions as Zelensky reaches out to Putin
The spokesperson for the European Commission, Paula Pinho, suggested that Vladimir Putin might be surprised by Volodymyr Zelensky's willingness to meet personally. This comment was made because of the Russian leader's refusal to agree to an immediate ceasefire and talks with the Ukrainian president.
The European Commission is considering imposing additional sanctions on Russia. Following Russia's refusal to agree to a ceasefire, the foreign ministers of France and Germany advocated for increased pressure through new sanctions. On Wednesday, member states are set to accept the 17th sanctions package preliminarily. The head of the EC, Ursula von der Leyen, proposed imposing sanctions on the Nord Stream 2 consortium.
Pinho stated that, according to multiple leaders, European Commission Vice President Kaja Kallas and President Ursula von der Leyen are considering introducing additional sanctions if a ceasefire is not established.
Zelensky ready for talks
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, expressed his readiness to negotiate with Vladimir Putin, proposing a meeting in Turkey. Zelensky emphasised that he wants to talk directly with Putin, not with other representatives of the Russian side.
Pinho highlighted his intense anticipation for President Putin to confirm his willingness to meet with President Zelensky on Thursday.
The EC spokesperson expressed hope that a meeting between the leaders would take place, which would be the first such event since the beginning of the war.
Expert talks in Istanbul
On 15th May, expert-level talks will take place in Istanbul between Russia and Ukraine. The Vice Chairman of the Federation Council, Konstantin Kosachev, emphasises their significance. The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, expects Russia to agree to a complete and permanent ceasefire.
The international community, including the leaders of Ukraine, Poland, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, is exerting pressure on Russia to agree to a ceasefire.
