Johann Wadepuhl: EU foreign ministers are planning the largest package of sanctions against Russia to date

This Monday, the foreign ministers of the EU states want to sanction more people and organizations than ever before because of their support for Russia's war machine.

Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul speaks of an "unprecedented sanctions strike against Putin's war economy." There are now more people and companies listed than ever before, “a total of well over 1,600.” Almost all of them are directly or indirectly important for Russia's conduct of the war.

"Russia cannot and will not win this war"

Drone manufacturers are also listed, mainly due to pressure from Berlin. Wadepuhl welcomed the measure as a response to Russia's increasing hybrid attacks on EU member states. “The attempted drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport showed how directly this threat also affects Germany,” said the Foreign Minister. "The message is clear: Russia cannot and will not win this war."

In addition to the sanctions list, the foreign ministers' meeting in Luxembourg will also discuss Russian acts of sabotage and disinformation campaigns in EU countries as well as the situation in the Middle East. To strengthen stability in Lebanon, an EU mission to advise and train Lebanese security forces is to be launched. These should be able to exercise control over the entire Lebanese territory and enforce a state arms monopoly.

State Minister Gunther Krichbaum from Germany is expected at the meeting in Luxembourg. He represents Wadephul, who is unable to attend. The deliberations will be led by EU chief diplomat Kaja Kallas. They had already warned about Russia that morning - but with a view to an environmental catastrophe.