The new sanctions against Russia are expected to be adopted on May 20. Kallas stated that Russia shows no signs of seeking peace, thus necessitating increased pressure.
Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski added that Moscow seeks the lifting of sanctions, emphasizing that they should therefore be severe.
The two-day informal talks, known as Gymnich after the castle near Bonn where the first meeting was held in 1974, also covered support for Ukraine, the situation in Gaza, and China's role in potential peace talks.
At a joint press conference, Kaja Kallas and Radosław Sikorski emphasized that the main focus of the EU foreign ministers' discussions was Ukraine. They stressed the need for continued military support, including the preparation of the 17th sanctions package against Russia.
EU to provide €1 billion for Ukraine’s arms industry
EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, announced a €1 billion allocation for Ukraine’s defense industry and support for the creation of an international war crimes tribunal.
Among the conditions for peace were Ukraine’s independence, territorial integrity, and the non-recognition of Russia's occupation, as well as a ban on negotiations concerning Ukraine without its participation.
Ministers also addressed the situation in the Gaza Strip, calling for a ceasefire, the end of the blockade, and the release of hostages, while criticizing plans for the forced displacement of Palestinians.
Sikorski emphasized that Poland acknowledges Israel's right to defense and peace, but reminded that as the occupying power in Gaza and the West Bank, Israel bears responsibility for the population of these territories.
The politicians also emphasized the importance of countering Russia's distorted narrative of World War II and discussed ongoing negotiations on migration, as well as cooperation with Germany and the United Kingdom.
Poland's top diplomat Radosław Sikorski, via social media, shared that while the EU and candidate countries' foreign ministers were in session, his wife, journalist Anne Applebaum, was presenting the history of Warsaw to the ministers' partners.
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Source: IAR/PAP/X/@POLAND25EU/@kajakallas/@sikorskiradek