Politico: EU and UK discuss full trade embargo against Russia
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The EU and its allies, including the UK, are discussing the possibility of imposing the toughest economic measures against Russia to date, up to and including a full trade embargo, Politico reports, citing informed sources.

The potential embargo will be the main topic of the sixth summit of the European Political Community, which will be held in Albania today. The event will bring together 47 leaders of countries, including leaders of EU member states, Ukraine, Britain and other European countries.

According to the publication's sources, the European Union and the United Kingdom are looking for ways to deal a severe blow to the Russian economy that would overshadow any previous package of sanctions.

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Among the options is the introduction of extremely high tariffs on Russian exports, up to and including a complete cessation of trade with Russia.

It is noted that the discussed plan is inspired by Republican Senator Lindsey Graham's proposal to impose 500% sanctions on Russian exports if Putin does not end the war.

It is known that Graham has already been in contact with European diplomats, including French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot.

Although Europe is skeptical about Graham's chances of convincing US President Donald Trump (if he returns to the White House), some EU countries are ready to act independently.

As diplomats noted, if the US does not join, the pro-European coalition could still adopt a "mega-package" of sanctions on its own.

The reason for the discussion of new sanctions is the refusal of Russian President Vladimir Putin to declare a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine.

  • On May 11, Putin suggested that Ukraine resume direct talks on May 15 in Istanbul without preconditions. Trump called it "a potentially big day for Ukraine and Russia."
  • Zelensky later said he was ready to meet with Putin in Istanbul and would wait for him there. And on May 13, the president confirmed a visit to Turkey and announced talks with Erdogan.
  • Britain noted that Russia had sent "low-level" representatives to Turkey for negotiations. Zelensky himself called the level of the Russian delegation in Turkey "fake."