Kallas: there is no reason to lift sanctions against russia

“We definitely need sanctions. This is our leverage, and it would be very strange to give it away. putin has not changed his goals. Therefore, there is no reason to cancel them,” Kallas told reporters.

The EU has imposed 15 packages of sanctions against moscow since russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Reportedly, the next decision on the extension of sanctions should be made unanimously by 27 EU countries by January 31. However, there are those who oppose this.

The biggest opponent of sanctions against russia is Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. On January 17, he said that Brussels must adapt to the changed situation, as “a new era is beginning.” He called for a system of sanctions-free relations with russia.

According to Kallas, sanctions should not be lifted until peace talks are held to end russia's war against Ukraine, as Europe would then be in a “much weaker position.”

“I also don't think it's in the best interest of the United States to lift sanctions now,” she added.

European diplomats are worried about Hungary's delay, as sanctions are set to expire at the end of the month. If the measures end, it would potentially allow moscow to seize more than 200 billion euros ($205 billion) in frozen central bank assets in Europe.

Source: Suspilne