EU and US Collaborate to Intensify Sanctions Against Russia Amid Growing Tensions

David O’Sullivan, the EU’s sanctions envoy, is set to lead a team to Washington on Monday for discussions focused on enhancing collaboration with the United States regarding sanctions against Russia.

O’Sullivan, who has been at the forefront of the EU’s initiative to tackle Russia’s attempts to bypass sanctions, is expected to conduct meetings on both Monday and Tuesday, as revealed by an EU official who wished to remain anonymous.

These discussions are taking place just a day after U.S. President Donald Trump hinted at new sanctions on Russia, which Ukraine has characterized as the country’s most significant aerial assault since the onset of the large-scale invasion in 2022.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated on Sunday that the U.S. is prepared to «increase pressure» on Moscow while urging European nations to adopt a more assertive stance.

«We are discussing collaborative actions between the EU and the U.S.,» Bessent mentioned during an appearance on NBC’s Meet the Press. «However, we need our European allies to join us in this effort.»

Trump has warned of punitive measures against nations that continue to purchase Russian oil, a major revenue source for the Kremlin. So far, though, secondary sanctions have only been imposed on India by Washington.

Brussels is currently working on its 19th sanctions package targeting Russia, with officials indicating that it will likely encompass additional penalties against nations accused of assisting Moscow in evading restrictions. The EU’s latest package included sanctions on several Chinese banks and an oil refinery in India.

However, any attempt to intensify pressure on India may be politically sensitive, as the EU aims to strengthen trade relations with New Delhi and is concerned about pushing it closer to Russia and China.