EU presents new sanctions package as allies back Ukraine dialogue and accession
The EU has introduced its 21st sanctions package against Russia, with leaders affirming their effectiveness. Nordic and Baltic countries support Ukraine's EU and NATO accession, while diplomatic efforts for direct talks continue.
The European Commission has unveiled its 21st package of sanctions against Russia, with President Ursula von der Leyen asserting that "Our sanctions are working." Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas echoed this, stating that the measures are progressively eroding Russia's war economy. Concurrently, Nordic and Baltic nations have reiterated their support for Ukraine's eventual membership in both NATO and the EU. On the ground, Russian shelling in the Kharkiv oblast caused four fatalities and several injuries. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned a Russian drone strike near the Chernobyl power plant, describing the targeting of a spent nuclear fuel depot as "absolutely cowardly." Diplomatically, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom have endorsed President Zelensky's proposal for direct talks between Kyiv and Moscow, suggesting the current line of contact as a starting point.
Sources: Le Monde
Sources
Earlier coverage
- Jun 9, 2026, 04:30 PM UTCEU presents 21st sanctions package as diplomatic and military actions continue
- Jun 9, 2026, 12:30 PM UTCEU unveils 21st sanctions package as Ukraine reports Chernobyl drone strike and Kharkiv casualties
- Jun 9, 2026, 08:30 AM UTCUkraine reports Chernobyl strike, updated Kharkiv casualties, and Western support for dialogue
- Jun 9, 2026, 12:00 AM UTCUkraine reports new strikes, international support for dialogue emerges
- Jun 7, 2026, 11:30 AM UTCUkraine reports Russian drone strike near Chernobyl nuclear facility