The European Union is preparing its 19th package of sanctions against Russia, according to EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas, as pressure mounts ahead of a high-stakes summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, set for August 15 in Alaska.

Speaking after an online meeting of EU foreign ministers, Kallas made it clear that the bloc remains firmly united in its support for Ukraine and warned against any moves to soften the EU’s stance on Moscow.

“There can be no concessions to the Kremlin until there is a full and unconditional ceasefire,” Kallas said. “We must increase pressure, not reduce it.”

The upcoming summit between Trump and Putin has reignited concerns across European capitals that diplomatic engagement with Russia could lead to premature compromises, especially as Russia continues military operations on Ukrainian territory.

During the virtual conference, EU diplomats discussed the scope of the new sanctions, which are expected to target Russian financial institutions, military suppliers, and state propaganda networks. Additional individual sanctions on Kremlin-linked oligarchs and officials are also under review.

Despite growing calls in some international circles for a negotiated settlement, Kallas and other EU leaders insisted that peace cannot be resolved without Kyiv at the table reinforcing the EU’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Conclusion:

As the August 15 Trump–Putin summit approaches, the EU is moving to solidify its diplomatic and economic stance, determined to avoid any scenario in which Moscow is rewarded without fully ending its aggression. The forthcoming sanctions package is expected to be formally unveiled in the coming days.