Germany warns of new Russia sanctions if Ukraine talks stal

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said further concessions on Ukraine are unacceptable and warned that the European Union would impose tougher sanctions on Russia if no progress is made in peace talks this week.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Merz said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s consent to negotiations in Istanbul already represented a significant compromise.

“This also shows the seriousness of his intentions and his willingness to seize the opportunity for a ceasefire and subsequent peace talks,” the chancellor said.

He added that the next steps depend on Russia. According to Merz, the EU is considering further sanctions targeting the energy sector and financial markets if no breakthrough is achieved.

N.Tebrizli