VILNIUS - Western leaders' threats to slap tough sanctions on Russia that never materialize are undermining the credibility of Ukrainian backers' response to the Kremlin's aggression, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda has warned.
"Of course. This is a problem. It negatively affects not only the credibility of our sanctions but also that of other measures aimed at Russia and support for Ukraine," Nauseda said in an interview with the German newspaper Bild when asked whether Chancellor Friedrich Merz had undermined Europe's credibility by threatening sanctions that were never imposed.
"We have repeatedly declared that we would support Ukraine and supply it with fighter jets, long-range missiles and ammunition. But we have failed to keep these promises," he added.
The Lithuanian president pointed to the Baltic and Nordic countries as examples of firm support for Ukraine.
"In this respect, the Baltic and Nordic countries are probably a good example of how strong political will can translate into support for Ukraine. Ukrainians need equipment and ammunition now - not tomorrow," he said.
In May, European Union leaders hoped to reach an agreement with the United States on a new round of tough sanctions against Moscow, which has shown no willingness to declare a ceasefire or engage seriously in negotiations to end the war in Ukraine.
US lawmakers have also been stepping up calls to increase sanctions pressure. However, President Donald Trump is holding off, saying he does not want to jeopardize talks between Moscow and Kyiv.
The US leader has not only failed to respond with any sanctions to the Kremlin's ongoing offensive and bombardment of Ukraine, but has also expressed his displeasure with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's outspokenness.
The EU adopted its 17th sanctions package against the Kremlin in May, but some member states are already pushing for an 18th.
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