EU foreign ministers are discussing a new package of sanctions against Russia in response to its ongoing war in Ukraine. 

Kaja Kallas, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, made the announcement during a press briefing on 30 August following the ministers’ meeting in Copenhagen.

She stressed that “it’s clear that Russia is not preparing for peace. It is the opposite. They are preparing for more war.”

Kallas pointed to the 28 August strike on Kyiv, which killed 25 civilians – including four children – and damaged offices of several international organisations.

According to her, the aim of additional sanctions is “to further increase pressure on Russia to negotiate.”

Among the measures under consideration are secondary sanctions on states providing support to Moscow’s war effort.

Ministers also discussed broader import restrictions and tariffs on Russian goods.

“Efforts against shadow fleet ships must also be stepped up,” Kallas added. 

The foreign ministers also discussed the use of frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s defense and reconstruction.