European Leaders Plan Tougher Sanctions as Putin Delays Ukraine Peace Talks

European and NATO leaders have criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for delaying peace talks and refusing to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky directly, with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer accusing Putin of dragging his heels on a ceasefire. Despite Ukraine’s willingness to agree to a 30-day unconditional truce, Russia sent lower-level officials to recent talks in Turkey, which lasted under two hours and featured new unacceptable demands from Moscow. U.S. President Donald Trump has been actively pushing for negotiations and suggested a possible meeting with Putin, but the Kremlin’s absence has stalled progress. European leaders have threatened to impose tougher economic sanctions on Russia's oil, gas, and banking sectors if it does not commit to serious peace talks. Ukrainian and Western officials emphasize the need for coordinated pressure, including sanctions and military support, to compel Russia to negotiate a lasting peace. The ongoing stalemate underscores the deep divisions between the parties and the significant challenges in achieving a resolution to the conflict.