European Commission chief backs tougher sanctions on Russia as 18th package nears

BRUSSELS

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Thursday urged stronger pressure on Russia through sanctions and defense support for Ukraine, noting that the EU's 18th sanctions package against Russia is nearing the finish line.

Speaking alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and European Council President Antonio Costa in Aarhus, von der Leyen welcomed Denmark's rotating presidency, saying: "As a first achievement of your presidency, you can bring the 18th package to the finish line. I'm confident that this will be possible."

"We all know that (Russian President Vladimir) Putin does not want peace, so we need to put pressure on him to come to the negotiation table. 18th sanctions packages are biting at the heart of Russia's war economy," she said.

Von der Leyen also reiterated the EU's military support, promising 2 million artillery shells for Ukraine by the end of 2025 and €2.1 billion in new defense aid, funded through windfall profits from frozen Russian assets. "In practice, Russia is paying for the weapons Ukraine is using," she said.

Addressing concerns about potential vetoes on Ukraine's EU accession, von der Leyen said the process remains "merit-based," not political. "Ukraine deserves all the merits to move on to open the first cluster. So, therefore, this is now intense talks going on."

Costa voiced disappointment over Russia's refusal to engage with peace efforts, saying: "While President Zelensky has already agreed on an unconditional ceasefire, Russia not only hasn't agreed but is even increasing the intensity of their aggression to Ukraine."

Frederiksen said the Danish presidency would work toward "a more powerful and decisive Europe," prepared to confront growing threats. “It has been said that we live in the age of predators. In this age, Europe must not end up being the prey," she warned.

She also expressed hope that the US would continue its support for Ukraine and said: "But if there are any gaps, then I personally believe that we should be willing to fill in."

The joint remarks come as Denmark begins its six-month presidency of the EU Council, with Ukraine, security, defense, migration, and competitiveness topping the agenda.

Shortly after joint remarks at the official opening ceremony, Frederiksen emphasized the urgency of accelerating the green transition, calling it key to Europe's competitiveness and independence, "especially from Russia."

"Every cent we sent to Russia is a support for Russia's war machine. We cannot continue paying them killing Europeans. We need to work hard to end all import of Russian gas," she said.

Costa reiterated the bloc's long-term support for Ukraine and voiced confidence in Denmark's leadership in advancing accession talks with Ukraine, Moldova, and the Western Balkans.