Latvian Foreign Minister Braže Urges Swift Action on Ukraine Support & New Russia Sanctions at EU Council
At the recent EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting, Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba braže strongly advocated for continued and increased pressure on Russia, emphasizing the urgent need for the EU to approve a 19th round of sanctions. Braže highlighted that existing sanctions are demonstrably impacting Russia’s economy, contributing to the crumbling of its “war economy,” but further measures are critical. She specifically called for sanctions targeting Russia’s “shadow fleet,” as well as its energy and financial sectors – areas enabling the financing of the war against Ukraine.
Braže underscored the deteriorating situation in Ukraine, stating Russia is not seeking peace but rather utilizing time to escalate attacks. She stressed the coming months will be particularly challenging for Ukraine and that providing thorough military and financial support for self-defense is now “crucial.” Latvia, she noted, has already contributed both military and financial aid aligned with Ukraine’s stated priorities.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sibiha, who attended the Council meeting in person, echoed these concerns, detailing the intensifying Russian attacks and the critical state of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure as winter approaches. He urged EU unity in addressing Ukraine’s acute needs, maintaining pressure on Russia, and investing in Ukraine’s military industry. Sibiha affirmed Ukraine’s commitment to defending itself, including strikes on legitimate military targets within Russia to disrupt terrorist activities.
Beyond sanctions and support for Ukraine, the Council discussed the importance of reaching a political agreement on utilizing frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine, seeking a swift and practical solution. ministers also expressed support for the expedited establishment of a Special Tribunal to investigate the crime of aggression against Ukraine.
Minister Braže also engaged in bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the Council, meeting with the Foreign Ministers of Moldova and Uzbekistan. She also participated in the EU-Iraq Cooperation Council meeting and addressed attendees at the Inter-Regional Security and Connectivity ministerial Meeting, encompassing Eastern Partnership, Central Asian countries, and Turkey.
Braže highlighted Latvia’s strengthened political dialog with countries in the Indo-Pacific region – including Japan, Singapore, Australia, and South Korea – focusing on security, economic cooperation, preventing sanctions circumvention, and combating the “shadow fleet.”
