EU to Impose 17th Round of Sanctions on Russia, Coordinating with US

The European Union is preparing to impose its 17th round of sanctions on Russia in response to Moscow’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, according to French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot. The new penalties are set to be coordinated with the United States, marking a further step in the West's unified stance against Russia’s aggression.

In an interview with AFP on Thursday, Barrot reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to intensifying pressure on Russia, emphasizing that President Vladimir Putin is "the sole obstacle" to peace in Ukraine. Barrot also indicated that the EU sanctions would be in lockstep with a US initiative led by Senator Lindsey Graham, who has spearheaded efforts to levy additional sanctions on Russia and impose tariffs on countries continuing to purchase Russian energy.

Renewed Sanctions and Coordination with the US

"We Europeans will support this American initiative with the 17th sanctions package," Barrot stated. "I committed yesterday to Senator Lindsey Graham that we would coordinate both the substance and timing of these two packages of sanctions."

Graham has rallied bipartisan support in the US Senate for a proposal that would impose severe penalties on Russia. This includes a 500% tariff on imports from countries that buy Russian oil, natural gas, or uranium. The measure also seeks to prohibit Americans from purchasing Russian sovereign debt. The new sanctions are contingent on Russia's willingness to engage in peace negotiations and ceasefire talks.

In his comments, Barrot did not hold back in criticizing Putin's role in the ongoing conflict, calling it "crystal clear" that Russia’s leader is standing in the way of peace. "Ukraine has accepted an unconditional ceasefire and has agreed to a critical minerals deal with the United States," he said. "Meanwhile, Russia has made no effort to negotiate, signaling no willingness for peace."

France Eyes Economic Cooperation with Ukraine

Barrot also hinted at the potential for France to engage further with Ukraine on economic issues, particularly in the realm of critical minerals. "Given our expertise in rare earth minerals, we are exploring opportunities for cooperation with Ukraine that align with our mutual interests," he said.

Ukraine, which has relied heavily on international support throughout the war, hopes that such agreements will bolster its economy and provide security guarantees against future Russian aggression. A recent deal between the US and Ukraine, focusing on joint development of Ukraine's critical mineral resources, is seen as a key step toward long-term stability for the war-torn country.

Barrot's remarks come as both the US and France remain committed to ending the conflict and pursuing a lasting peace. "This is a decisive moment for Europe," Barrot concluded, underscoring the importance of European strategic autonomy and unity in the face of ongoing global crises.