European leaders plan to tighten sanctions on Russia amid continued military aggression

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In the capital

European leaders are poised to enhance sanctions against Russia following a deadly missile strike near the EU delegation office in Kyiv, which caused significant damage and casualties, reports 24brussels. At least two missiles struck within 50 meters of the mission’s building, resulting in the destruction of a nearby residential block and the British Council.

The airstrikes coincided with a meeting of EU defense and foreign ministers in Copenhagen, heightening discussions about the bloc’s 19th sanctions package, which Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has termed “hard-biting.” An internal memo prior to the attacks identified potential targets, focusing on Russia’s “shadow fleet” of oil tankers and stricter controls on Russian imports.

Officials in Brussels are also weighing a coordinated approach with Washington against Chinese and Indian entities that continue to support Russia, highlighting the complicated geopolitical landscape. Following recent U.S. tariff actions against India over its continued oil imports from Russia, questions arise about whether the EU will take similar steps or risk straining relations with vital trade partners. The Copenhagen meetings are informal, and no substantial decisions are anticipated until mid-September.

In Washington, President Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the recent strikes, viewing them as a setback just after peace discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. His Ukraine envoy described the attacks as “egregious.” Meanwhile, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz dismissed Trump’s assertion of arranging direct talks between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, affirming that such a meeting is now “obviously not going to happen.”

The ongoing cycle of European deliberations, U.S. posturing, and Russian aggression continues to define the conflict as military operations escalate while diplomatic efforts struggle. As the war endures, the need for effective responses and cohesive actions from the EU grows ever more pressing.

EU moves to lower tariffs on U.S. products

Brussels has formally proposed slashing tariffs on U.S. industrial and agricultural products, aiming to unlock Washington’s commitment to reduce tariffs on EU car exports. Under the proposed arrangement, the U.S. would decrease tariffs on EU car exports from 27.5% to 15%, contingent upon the approval of the legislative proposal by member states and the European Parliament.

A senior Commission official signalled that this initiative might be halted if the U.S. fails to meet its commitments. The EU seeks to ensure that any concessions granted are reciprocated adequately to safeguard its interests amid concerns over rising imports from other regions.

Some leading MEPs have indicated potential resistance in Parliament due to the uneven nature of the deal, alongside threats from the White House of additional tariffs despite the agreement. The situation remains fluid as leaders weigh the benefits of the proposal against the backdrop of ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Paris and Berlin talk ‘revival’

In Toulon, President Emmanuel Macron and Chancellor Friedrich Merz are convening for the 25th Franco-German Council of Ministers, with a focus on revitalizing their partnership. Both nations are keen to reinforce EU economic resilience, enhance competitiveness, and bolster support for Ukraine.

While the summit seeks to showcase collaboration, underlying tensions regarding the EU’s trade agreement with Mercosur and defense projects persist. Macron’s government is navigating domestic challenges, notably facing a confidence vote amidst political unrest, potentially impacting broader EU negotiations.

The E3 trigger UN ‘snapback’ sanctions on Iran

The UK, France, and Germany have initiated the process to reinstate UN sanctions on Iran regarding its nuclear program, emphasizing diplomacy throughout this 30-day period. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot asserted that ongoing dialogue remains a priority despite moving forward with sanctions in light of Iran’s lack of engagement.

Swedes and Dutch urge EU sanctions on Israel

Sweden and the Netherlands are advocating for EU sanctions against Israeli officials involved in expanding settlements. Their joint statement emphasizes international law compliance, reflecting growing scrutiny on Israel’s actions in the region amidst rising tensions.

The capitals

PARIS

French PM François Bayrou faced backlash after revealing he had not engaged with opposition leaders during the holiday period, a decision drawing criticism amidst an approaching confidence vote that could escalate political instability.

BRUSSELS

University students at Université libre de Bruxelles selected Franco-Palestinian MEP Rima Hassan as their class figure, eliciting controversy due to her stances on Palestinian issues. The faculty’s endorsement of the decision amidst public backlash reflects an ongoing struggle over political sentiment within academic circles.

ROME

Italian public figures, including PM Giorgia Meloni, are grappling with unauthorized use of their images, culminating in heightened criticism against online abuse. The Equal Opportunities Minister has pledged to intensify measures against such violations of personal rights.

MADRID

In response to wildfire crises, Spain’s Interior Minister criticized the Popular Party for politicizing the matter, defending government efforts to manage the situation amid political tensions.

WARSAW

Poland has heightened air defense readiness following Russian missile strikes in Kyiv. The Polish government emphasizes the need for vigilant security measures in light of renewed hostilities in the region.

PRAGUE

The Czech government has demanded substantial financial reparations from Agrofert over improper subsidies, reflecting ongoing political tension as elections approach.

VIENNA

Austrian diplomats have called for sanctions on Israel, stressing international responsibility. However, government officials maintain existing policies against cold-shouldering relations with Israel, illustrating the complexities of diplomatic discourse surrounding the Israel-Gaza conflict.

Also on Euractiv

NATO’s new target of spending 5% of GDP on defense by 2035 may be headline-grabbing, but Bogdan Gogulan argues it misses the point. In an op-ed for Euractiv, the NewSpace Capital boss argues Europe’s real weakness is a lack of innovation, and without redirecting more funds to startups and advanced technologies, the continent risks building a costly but obsolete military.

The EU’s argument over taxing nicotine pouches is putting lobbying practices under fresh scrutiny. A Florida-registered outfit called Considerate Pouchers has contacted MEPs but is not on the bloc’s Transparency Register, leading some lawmakers to refuse meetings. NGOs have recorded more than 100 meetings between MEPs and the industry in recent months. Sweden, with its unusually low smoking rate, continues to resist the Commission’s proposed levies.

Agenda

• Informal meeting of defense and foreign ministers in Copenhagen

• Ursula von der Leyen visits Latvia to meet PM Evika Siliņa and Finland to meet President Alexander Stubb

• Franco-German Council of Ministers in Toulon