Lithuania is actively working on shaping the new 18th EU sanctions package, which is intended to be not only powerful but also devastating for Russia. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha and Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys discussed the importance of including targets such as the Nord Streams, Rosatom, the shadow fleet, and other key elements of the Russian economy during a joint press conference in Kyiv.
Sybiha emphasized that Ukraine desires peace more than anyone else, but Russia continues to block the peace process. He noted that Russia did not respond to the constructive proposals presented before the Istanbul meeting.
“Instead, they laid out a list of ultimatums at Istanbul that are unsuitable for diplomacy. This once again shows that pressure on Russia and all those who assist it in waging this war must be intensified. We insist that the 18th EU sanctions package should not just be strong but devastating. It must deliver a crushing blow to energy, the shadow fleet, the banking sector, and sanction evasion schemes,” said Sybiha.
Budrys, in turn, stressed the need to continue pressuring Russia, as sanctions remain the only effective tool of influence.
“We must prepare a strong 18th sanctions package in Europe, which we are already doing. We are making efforts to include Nord Stream 1 and 2, additional companies involved in oil extraction and export, Rosatom with all top management, and shadow fleet vessels. Only 40% of it is currently covered by sanctions. There are untapped reserves for sanctions,” he said.
The Lithuanian minister also noted that it cannot be assumed that all sanction opportunities have been exhausted.
“No, we must synchronize sanctions with our American friends, with the Lindsey Graham package already being prepared in the Senate. In coordination, we can once again strengthen diplomatic efforts to convince Putin to agree to an unconditional ceasefire, which Ukraine proposed three months ago,” said Budrys.
Sybiha expressed gratitude to Lithuania for its support of Ukraine, particularly for military aid exceeding 800 million euros, as well as for co-leadership in coalitions dealing with demining, artillery, air defense, drones, electronic warfare, and IT.