A European Leader’s Warning on Russia Sanctions
In a stern critique, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausëda has condemned the German Chancellor’s, Friedrich Merz, empty threats against Russia, stating that such actions undermine the credibility of the European Union’s sanctions and support for Ukraine.
Nausëda lamented a general lack of progress in implementing European criminal penalties against Moscow, urging a more comprehensive approach to the upcoming 18th sanctions package. He emphasized the need to include all energy companies that finance the Russian state budget, such as Nord Stream, Rosatom, Gazprom and Lukoil.
Furthermore, the remaining Russian banks should be excluded from the international payment system, Swift, as well as the remaining ships of the so-called “shadow fleet.” The Lithuanian President warned that if these measures are not taken, Russia will view Europe as weak and unwilling to make bold decisions.
With a focus on the security risk to NATO, Nausëda expressed concern, stating that Russia will not limit its aggression to Ukraine. “This is more than obvious” he said, “it’s a threat to all of us. Therefore, it’s exactly the right approach, to stand together.