Vladislav Grigoriev18:23, 13.05.25

Merz shared that new sanctions could affect the energy sector and the financial market.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that if no real progress is made this week in a peaceful settlement of the war, the European Union will impose tougher sanctions against Russia , Reuters writes .

“We are waiting for Putin’s agreement and agree that if there is no real progress this week, we want to work together at the European level on a significant strengthening of sanctions,” he said at a press conference with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

Merz added that the EU would also consider other areas, such as the energy sector, as well as the financial market. He noted that European leaders had agreed with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that he could participate in talks with Russia in Istanbul this week, provided that Russian bombing and shelling of Ukrainian civilians by the occupiers cease.

“Now it all depends on Putin whether he will accept the offer of negotiations and whether he will agree to a ceasefire. The ball is completely in Russia’s court,” he noted.

In addition, the German Chancellor expressed admiration for Zelensky’s willingness to compromise if it helps achieve a ceasefire.

“I believe that further compromises and concessions are no longer reasonable,” Merz stressed.

The Greek Prime Minister added that the EU must be at the center of any peaceful settlement.

(C)UNIAN 2025