The European Union is considering the possibility of a gradual easing of sanctions against Russia, subject to a ceasefire in Ukraine. This information was reported by Sky News citing sources within the European Commission.

According to these sources, the EU hopes to reach a 15-day ceasefire first, which could come into force immediately. The initial period would be followed by a longer, structured cessation of fighting. Sanctions would remain in place during the first period, but a partial easing of sanctions is possible when the second phase begins. However, the sanctions plan will be immediately reimposed in the event of any violation of the ceasefire.

An Italian government source quoted by Sky News said that during a video conference scheduled for August 13, Italy will focus on getting the European Union involved in discussions between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump. Italian representatives stressed the need to include Europe, which contributes significant military spending, in decision-making processes relating to Ukraine.

On August 8, President Donald Trump announced his intention to meet with Vladimir Putin in Alaska on August 15, which was later confirmed by Russian presidential adviser Yuri Ushakov. According to him, the talks will focus on seeking options for long-term peace in Ukraine. The meeting will be the first face-to-face meeting between the two leaders since Trump's return to the White House in January 2025.

Ahead of the upcoming summit, a video conference was held between European leaders and President Trump, during which a common position was adopted: a ceasefire must be the first step, Kiev must necessarily be part of any negotiations and the European Union insists on non-recognition of the Russian occupation. Some European officials have expressed concern that Trump might give in to pressure from Moscow and have stressed the need to keep sanctions as the main instrument of pressure.

On 12 August, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and other European leaders stressed that any negotiations on territorial concessions are unacceptable without Ukraine's participation. The EU has set out five principles for approaching negotiations with Trump and Putin: a ceasefire before negotiations, Ukraine's participation at the roundtable, non-recognition of Russian occupation, Ukraine's right to self-defence, and a broader transatlantic strategy involving the EU and NATO.

However, the situation on the battlefield remains tense. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that Russia is preparing for new offensives rather than declaring a ceasefire. For his part, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said the conflict could be "frozen" without a formal peace agreement, which would mean a temporary but fragile ceasefire.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron have jointly initiated the creation of a "coalition of the willing", bringing together up to 31 countries ready to send peacekeepers to Ukraine after a comprehensive ceasefire is reached. The move is intended to provide guarantees for a sustainable peace.

gnews.cz - GH