The European Union (EU) renewed sanctions against Russia and agreed on measures to lift some of the sanctions imposed on Syria during its conflict. At an EU foreign ministers meeting, leaders called for a unified approach to address U.S. President Donald Trump’s “divide and rule” policy, which analysts describe as a strategy to weaken Europe by isolating member states.
Kaja Kallas, the EU’s top diplomat, emphasized that as the U.S. pursued a “transactional” foreign policy, Europe must unite against it: “We are stronger when we are united.” She also noted the risks of Trump’s support for far-right euroskeptic groups in Europe, which could weaken the continent’s unity.
Behind closed doors, European diplomats reportedly welcomed Trump’s potential tougher stance on Russia, particularly after he threatened higher tariffs and additional sanctions if Moscow didn’t cease its war in Ukraine. Kallas described Trump’s renewed pressure on Russia as positive for the EU.
Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban unexpectedly softened his objections to EU sanctions against Russia after Trump publicly condemned the Russian government for the “ridiculous war” and called for an end to it. Orban had previously vowed to veto any renewal of sanctions if Ukraine didn’t allow Russian gas through Hungary’s pipelines.
The EU extended its financial and trade sanctions against Russia, citing Moscow’s actions in Ukraine as a drain on its resources. Orban, however, eventually relented after pressure from the U.S. Commission, which confirmed it would continue discussions with Ukraine to ensure gas flows through Hungary.
In another development, the EU reconsidered its stance on Syria’s sanctions amid the transitional authority of Hayat Tahir al Sham, a former al-Qaeda affiliate now in Islamism. The bloc agreed to ease some sanctions while retaining the option to reimpose them if Syria fails to form an inclusive government or addresses human rights violations.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/eu-renews-russia-sanctions-calls-for-unity-against-trump/a-71427544