EU Plans Tighter Russia Sanctions After Failed Talks

Following failed peace talks in Istanbul, where Russian President Putin did not attend, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and German officials have called for tougher EU sanctions on Russia. The planned 18th sanctions package will target Russia's energy and financial sectors, including lower oil price caps, new restrictions on Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines, and measures against Russia's 'shadow fleet' of tankers used to evade sanctions. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy accused Russia of sending an unprepared delegation to the talks and continuing attacks on Ukrainian civilians. Germany and other Baltic states have increased surveillance and patrols in the Baltic Sea in response to security threats, including incidents involving shadow fleet tankers and Russian military provocations. The EU is intensifying pressure to push Putin toward a 30-day unconditional ceasefire and meaningful negotiations. The new sanctions package is expected to be formally adopted soon as leaders insist that further pressure is crucial to achieving peace.