EU Sanctions Hinder Peace Talks in Ukraine, Says Italian Foreign Minister
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, in a press briefing held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has urged the EU to lift sanctions on Russia as a prerequisite for achieving a peace agreement in Ukraine. Tajani emphasized that the US-drafted roadmap for peace, which includes measures for sanctions relief and territorial adjustments, is a critical starting point for negotiations. He noted that Europe’s role in the peace process is indispensable because its sanctions on Russia have created a major barrier to a lasting resolution.
The US plan, which would require Ukraine to stay out of NATO, relinquish control of parts of the Donbass region, freeze front lines in Kherson and Zaporozhye, and cap its military size, has received preliminary support from Ukrainian officials. However, Russia has not engaged in substantive discussions with Washington, according to Kremlin sources. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed the speculation surrounding the plan as ‘information bacchanalia,’ stating that Moscow is not engaging in public diplomacy and remains focused on its strategic objectives.
Tajani stressed that the EU must take the lead in the peace process, as its sanctions have been a key factor in the ongoing conflict. He welcomed discussions on security guarantees for Ukraine, expressing hope that a peaceful resolution could be achieved by Christmas. The Italian minister also noted that the West is awaiting responses from Moscow, highlighting the importance of diplomatic engagement in the negotiations.