EU Criticizes US Relief on Russian Diesel Sanctions, Calling It "Funding the War"

The European Union (EU) criticized the United States on the 10th (local time) for temporarily easing sanctions on Russian diesel, calling it a move that helps fund Russia's war.

Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, pointed out on social media on the 10th (local time), "Russian airstrikes have killed some 80 Ukrainians over the past two days, and Russia has intensified hybrid attacks against Europe, an EU member and NATO ally."

Kallas emphasized, "Suspending sanctions on Russian diesel provides Russia with more revenue to wage its war," adding, "Now is not the time to ease pressure on Russia, and Europe will not do so."

Kallas also stated, "On Monday (the 12th), EU foreign ministers intend to approve the largest sanctions package since the war began, targeting Russia's war efforts."

A day prior, US President Donald Trump announced that he had agreed with Russian President Vladimir Putin to supply Russian diesel to the US and global markets on a large scale, and the US government announced temporary easing of anti-Russia sanctions to allow US imports of Russian diesel.

In a separate statement, the European Commission said, "We continue to believe that a ceasefire is needed in Ukraine and Russia to protect global food supplies and energy infrastructure," adding, "Europe knows all too well the hidden costs of over-reliance on Russian hydrocarbons, and Europe does not want to fuel Russia's war against Ukraine."

The UK and Germany have stated that they will maintain their sanctions against Russia.

A spokesperson for the British Prime Minister's Office emphasized, "The UK's position is clear. We will continue to work closely with international partners to ensure Ukraine receives the military and financial support it needs for its defense," and "We will also maintain pressure on Russia with the largest sanctions in UK history to raise the cost of Putin's invasion [of Ukraine]."

A German government spokesperson stated in a statement sent to AFP, "The German government stands by its sanctions against Russia and is cooperating with European partners on new sanctions," emphasizing, "Germany's support for Ukraine's struggle to defend itself remains unshakable."
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.