Brussels, Mar. 26, (dpa/GNA) – The European Union has rejected calls to ease sanctions on Russia following US-backed talks on the Ukraine war in Saudi Arabia, insisting any such steps would only be considered if they serve Kiev’s interests.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas’ spokeswoman said on Wednesday that the bloc took note of proposals made in Riyadh this week aimed at securing safe navigation in the Black Sea and halting attacks on energy infrastructure in both Ukraine and Russia.
But she said it is up to Russia to show actual political will to end its unprovoked war on Ukraine. The EU remains ready to work with Ukraine, the United States and other partners on next steps, she said.
Russia claims certain EU sanctions must be lifted to finalize any agreement on merchant shipping in the Black Sea. However, EU diplomats told dpa the demands were likely not coordinated with Washington and could be aimed at undermining ceasefire efforts.
Any easing of sanctions would only be considered if it directly contributed to a peace deal acceptable to Ukraine, EU sources added.
The US described the proposed shipping agreement as a positive outcome of the Saudi talks, which included representatives from Russia and Ukraine. However, Moscow is demanding renewed access to the SWIFT international financial system for Russia’s state-owned agricultural bank — a move only the EU can authorize, as the system is headquartered in Belgium.
Russia is also pushing to lift embargoes on agricultural machinery and other goods critical to food and fertilizer production, along with broader trade restrictions.
Brussels confirmed it remains engaged with the US on Ukraine, including through the G7, but is not involved in direct talks with Moscow.
GNA
PDC