Closing the Tap Could Grip Russia by the Throat - French Foreign Minister

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot emphasizes that the European Union must focus on a new sanctions package to strangle the Russian economy and compel President Vladimir Putin to cease the war against Ukraine. This was reported by Reuters.

Speaking after the approval of the EU's 17th sanctions package against Russia, Barrot noted that the impact of the measures so far has been inadequate. He stated that the EU should collaborate with the United States, where Congress has already prepared heavy measures in case President Donald Trump decides to exert pressure on Moscow.

“We need to go further, as the current sanctions have not convinced Vladimir Putin to stop his expansionist war. Therefore, we must be prepared for the expansion of crushing sanctions that could ultimately strangle the Russian economy,” said the minister.

Barrot also mentioned plans to negotiate with U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham regarding a proposed sanctions bill. This bill aims to introduce a 500% tariff on countries importing Russian oil, as highlighted by the head of the French Foreign Ministry.

“Russia has found ways to circumvent the restrictions imposed by Europe and the U.S., so ‘closing the tap’ could grip Russia by the throat,” he added.