Kyiv: Ukraine is pushing the European Union to adopt a more assertive sanctions strategy against Russia, citing diminishing U.S. backing under President Donald Trump. A 40-page white paper submitted to EU officials outlines measures such as accelerating the seizure of Russian assets for Ukraine's benefit, imposing secondary sanctions on foreign buyers of Russian oil—including countries like India and China—and targeting foreign companies aiding Russia with EU technology. The proposal also suggests shifting from the EU’s unanimity requirement for sanctions decisions to majority-rule voting to prevent individual states from blocking action.

This initiative comes as President Trump declined to impose new sanctions after a recent call with President Vladimir Putin, favoring diplomatic talks instead. Ukraine's document expresses concern over the U.S.'s retreat from sanctions leadership, citing reduced enforcement efforts and stalled approval of pending U.S. sanctions packages. European officials, though disappointed, continued imposing their own measures and are now exploring ways to maintain pressure on Moscow without U.S. support. Ukraine warns that a U.S. pullback may weaken EU unity but insists that this should prompt the EU to take the lead in isolating Russia economically.

In response, the European Union and the United Kingdom have announced coordinated sanctions against Russia, targeting its "shadow fleet" of oil tankers and financial institutions aiding sanction evasion. These measures were unveiled without coordination from the U.S., following a call between President Trump and President Putin that failed to yield a ceasefire in Ukraine or prompt fresh U.S. sanctions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the EU and UK actions and urged continued American support.

As the EU considers Ukraine's proposals, the bloc faces internal challenges, including Hungary's veto power over sanctions decisions. While the EU lacks the dollar's global leverage, a firm European stance could still deter investment in Russia. The outcome of these discussions will significantly impact the EU's role in the ongoing conflict and its relationship with both Ukraine and Russia.