EU pushes ahead with 21st sanctions package against Russia, says foreign policy chief

The EU is preparing to move forward with its 21st sanctions package against Russia, signaling sustained pressure on Moscow and continued support for Ukraine, the bloc’s foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said on Friday.

Speaking at the informal EU summit in Greek Cyprus, Kallas said recent measures include a €90 billion ($105 billion) financial package for Ukraine and the adoption of the 20th sanctions package.

“Prime ministers were really pushing to go on with the 21st package of sanctions as well,” she said, adding that the EU should “revisit the previous red lines” that have slowed earlier decisions.

Kallas stressed that the continued rollout of sanctions sends a clear message to Moscow.

“It sends a very clear signal to Russia that they can't outweight us,” she said. “It also sends a clear signal to Russia that Ukraine is more important to us...will keep on supporting them.”

Turning to the Middle East, Kallas warned that ongoing conflicts are having far-reaching consequences and require a broader diplomatic approach.

She said current negotiations largely focus on Iran’s nuclear program but should also address other key concerns.

"What we are worried about is that the negotiations that are going on right now are addressing the nuclear issue, but also the missile program should be addressed, as well as Iran's support to proxies," she said.

Kallas underlined that freedom of navigation remains a "non-negotiable principle" for the EU, particularly in strategic waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz.

She also pointed to the possibility of strengthening existing EU maritime missions in the region, including operations such as Aspides and Atalanta, by increasing capabilities and resources.