EU must maintain Russia sanctions to starve Moscow of funds, says Kallas

The EU's top diplomat has reaffirmed the bloc's commitment to maintaining economic sanctions against Russia, arguing they form a cornerstone of Europe's response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Kaja Kallas told EU member states that sanctions play a vital role in restricting Moscow's financial capacity to sustain military operations. The measures, she indicated, represent one of the most effective tools available to the European Union in pressuring Russia to change course.

The remarks underscore the EU's determination to keep economic pressure on Russia despite the lengthy duration of the conflict. Officials have maintained that the sanctions regime, which targets key sectors of the Russian economy, remains necessary to degrade the Kremlin's ability to fund its military campaign.

The statement comes as European leaders continue to debate the long-term strategy towards Russia, with sanctions policy remaining a central point of discussion among EU governments.