Moscow remains unfazed by Western threats of further sanctions, asserting that such measures will not compel it to alter its military course in Ukraine. As Washington prepares to host European leaders to discuss potential resolutions to the conflict, Berlin emphasized its commitment to providing security assurances to Ukraine. Amid discussions among Europeans and Americans about the possibility of increased sanctions against Moscow, the Kremlin stated:
“Sanctions will not force Russia to change its stance in the Ukrainian conflict,” following indications from the US and the EU regarding plans for additional economic measures. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov addressed Kremlin reporter Alexander Yunashev, stating:
“No sanctions will be effective in persuading the Russian Federation to alter the firm position repeatedly articulated by our President. The Western sanctions have proven entirely ineffective in exerting pressure on Russia.” He emphasized that Moscow prefers to achieve its objectives through political and diplomatic means.
However, since Europe and Kyiv are unwilling to participate in this process, Russia will continue its special military operation. Just before the Kremlin’s remarks, former US President Donald Trump expressed readiness to increase pressure on Russia through a second round of sanctions and announced that European leaders would visit the US to discuss ways to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
He added that he would be speaking with President Vladimir Putin soon and noted, “Some European leaders will be visiting our country individually.” Trump voiced his dissatisfaction regarding Russia’s recent significant airstrike on Kyiv.
Accusations
Meanwhile, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev accused Finland of escalating tensions with Russia, reiterating demands for reparations from World War II.
In a column for the Russian news agency TASS, Medvedev stated, “Following its NATO membership, Helsinki is moving towards confrontation, preparing for war with Russia under the pretext of defensive measures. It appears they are preparing to launch an attack against us. It’s clear who these structures are aimed at.” He expressed concerns over NATO declaring Russia as an enemy and lamented the establishment of military units in Lapland, which is close to the Russian border. Meanwhile, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul sought to dispel any doubts regarding his country’s role in providing security assurances to Ukraine.
During the opening of the annual conference of German ambassadors at the Foreign Ministry in Berlin, he stated, “Germany will indeed fulfill its role in providing security assurances to Ukraine. Russia will continue its aggressive behavior, and indeed, it will intensify against us if we do not counter it.” He noted that after three weeks since the Alaska summit, it is evident that Moscow is looking for excuses to prolong the war and avoid a trilateral summit. He concluded, “The responsibility now lies with us. We must take greater responsibility for ensuring our security.”
Significant Advantage
Syrskyi noted that Russia employs a creeping advance tactic with small infantry groups, attempting to infiltrate villages by exploiting the gaps between positions while avoiding direct confrontation, highlighting that Ukrainian forces regained control over 58 square kilometers and several small villages.
On the ground, Russian news agency Interfax reported yesterday, citing the Russian Ministry of Defense, that “Russian forces struck energy infrastructure in Ukraine.” The Ukrainian Ministry of Energy confirmed that Russia targeted a thermal power generation facility in Kyiv.