EU: Russia not serious about peace despite Trump's efforts

BRUSSELS, Oct 20 (KUNA) -- EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas affirmed on Monday that Russia lacks genuine intent for peace in Ukraine despite US President Donald Trump's efforts, and that the EU is weighing more pressure on Moscow, including a new sanctions package.
Speaking to reporters upon arrival at the Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Luxembourg, Kallas said, "The European Union welcomes all efforts to bring peace, including the initiatives taken by President Donald Trump," but added that "Russia does not seem interested in a just peace, as it only understands the language of strength and negotiates only when it is forced to do so." The EU's top diplomat explained that the foreign ministers "will discuss today what more can be done to continue supporting Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression," noting that "the EU is preparing to adopt its 19th package of sanctions against Moscow this week," and expressing hope that "an agreement can be reached during the European leaders' meeting on Thursday." Kallas added that the ministers would also discuss "how to better coordinate efforts to deal with the so-called shadow fleet used by Russia to circumvent the sanctions imposed on it," stressing "the European Union's determination to strengthen joint monitoring mechanisms and to counter attempts to evade sanctions." (end) arn.lr