The EU will not lift sanctions on Russia, even if the U.S. decides to do so, according to Dombrovskis.

The European Union has no intention of lifting sanctions against Russia, imposed due to its aggression towards Ukraine, even if the United States decides to do so.

This was stated by European Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis before a meeting of the Council on Economic and Financial Affairs in Brussels on February 18, as reported by the European Commission.

In response to a question about whether the EU would reconsider its sanctions if Washington changes its policy, Dombrovskis gave a clear answer, emphasizing that Brussels would pursue its own sanctions policy regardless of decisions made by the Trump administration.

“Considering the political direction of the new US administration, the EU must take its security into its own hands, including its sanctions policy. As you know, work is already underway on the 16th sanctions package,” noted Dombrovskis.

Previously, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, during a meeting with the US Special Representative for Ukraine and Russia, Keith Kellogg, confirmed that any future peace agreement must respect Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, and include reliable security guarantees.

Von der Leyen emphasized the crucial role of the EU in ensuring Ukraine's financial stability and defense. She noted that the European Union has provided Ukraine with assistance totaling €135 billion – more than any other ally. This includes approximately €48 billion in military aid, bringing the EU's contribution closer to that of the United States.

Background. Recall that von der Leyen stated that Brussels would lift outdated restrictions, allowing EU countries to increase investments in defense. The EC head believes that Russia's war against Ukraine and the new Trump administration's refusal to spend significant amounts on the defense of Europe can be considered an extraordinary situation.