Merz Reveals What The New Sanctions Against Russia May Cover

• 13.05.2025, 17:24

Germany is ready to step up the pressure.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that if the Russian leadership refuses to agree to a 30-day ceasefire, European countries are preparing to significantly increase sanctions pressure on Russia.

He said this on Tuesday, May 13, at a joint press conference with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, informs "Suspilne".

The parties discussed the situation around Russian aggression against Ukraine. According to Merz, Kiev has already agreed to an unconditional 30-day ceasefire and now the move is up to Moscow.

"We are waiting for Putin's approval and we agree that if there is no real progress this week, we will then work together at the European level to significantly strengthen the sanctions. You all know that the EU's 17 package of sanctions has already been formulated," Merz said.

He specified that the ceasefire proposals were formed jointly with a number of European partners and submitted as early as last weekend. If Russia refuses, he said, the EU could impose new restrictions, particularly in the energy and financial spheres.

"We welcome the fact that President Zelensky personally agreed to go to Turkey to negotiate peace with President Putin. But now Putin must accept this offer of talks and agree to a ceasefire. The ball is completely on Russia's side," the chancellor said.

Earlier on May 13, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadeful said that Russia must show up for the talks in Istanbul on Thursday, May 15, otherwise it "will have consequences."