French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot has confirmed that the European Union is preparing its 17th round of sanctions targeting Russia. Speaking during an interview, Barrot described Russian President Vladimir Putin as the “sole obstacle” to achieving peace in Ukraine.
The announcement comes as the 27-nation bloc continues to intensify pressure on Moscow following its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The EU has already imposed a series of unprecedented economic penalties and remains firm on its stance that sanctions will not be lifted unless Putin unconditionally withdraws all Russian forces from Ukraine.
Coordination With US on Sanctions
Barrot said the EU aims to align its latest sanctions package with upcoming US measures. He stated, “We Europeans will accompany this American initiative with a 17th package of sanctions,” referring to a recent discussion he had with US Senator Lindsey Graham. The senator has led bipartisan efforts to impose stricter sanctions on Russia and introduce tariffs against countries importing Russian energy.
Putin ‘Only Obstacle to Peace’
The French foreign minister did not hold back in his criticism of the Russian president. “It is now crystal clear that the only obstacle to peace today in Ukraine is Vladimir Putin,” he said.
Barrot highlighted Ukraine’s recent willingness to cooperate internationally, citing a newly signed agreement between Kyiv and Washington focused on critical minerals. He said the deal aligns with Ukraine’s goals of economic partnership and could potentially open the door to security guarantees from the United States.
Russia Shows No Signs of Ceasefire
Despite Ukraine accepting an unconditional ceasefire, Barrot emphasized that Moscow has shown no effort toward peace. “Vladimir Putin’s Russia has made no effort, has sent no sign that it is ready for the ceasefire or the peace,” he said, adding that both Europe and Ukraine are still hoping for a peaceful resolution.
Economic Partnerships and Strategic Talks
Barrot also hinted at the possibility of a future economic agreement between France and Ukraine, particularly in the field of rare earth minerals, an area where France has significant expertise.
He recently held direct talks with US counterpart Marco Rubio to further coordinate strategies regarding the Ukraine conflict. Both sides agreed on the importance of acting in unity.
“This is a decisive moment for Europe,” Barrot said, reinforcing French President Emmanuel Macron’s long-standing call for greater European strategic autonomy and a stronger European role within NATO.
Regarding tariffs imposed by the US, Barrot called for a “de-escalation” and a return to trade conditions before the Trump-era measures.
