EU Plans Tougher Sanctions Against Russia Over Ukraine Ceasefire Stalemate

European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, have warned that the EU is prepared to impose significantly tougher sanctions on Russia if Moscow fails to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine. Targets for new sanctions are expected to include key sectors such as energy, financial services, and the Russian economy more broadly. Despite a call for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire starting May 12, Russian President Vladimir Putin instead proposed direct negotiations with Ukraine, scheduled for May 15 in Istanbul, which Ukraine's President Zelenskyy has agreed to attend. European officials emphasize that any negotiations must be preceded by a ceasefire, and EU leaders remain coordinated in their approach, though unanimous agreement among member states for new sanctions may be challenging. German Chancellor Merz and Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis stressed the importance of the EU's central role in any peace settlement, with Merz cautioning against further concessions from Ukraine after Zelenskyy's openness to dialogue. The European Commission has been tasked with preparing new sanctions proposals targeting energy and financial sectors if Russia does not de-escalate hostilities.