Von der Leyen: Russia only understands pressure, we need to increase it

During a video call with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, European leaders united in the so-called coalition of the willing appealed to maintain a tough stance against Russia.

According to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the sanctions pressure must be continued because it is the only tool Moscow perceives.

In a post on Platform X, she stressed that the pressure will increase until Russia shows genuine interest in a peaceful solution.

She also confirmed that the coalition will continue to support Ukraine, with current discussions focusing on options for its continued funding - including the use of frozen Russian assets.

Although this was a formal conversation, the tone of the statements suggests that fatigue with the situation in Ukraine has not yet prevailed in the European space.

(reuters, swag)