Germany’s New Chancellery Chief Urges Tougher Sanctions on Russia

Germany’s new chancellery chief Thorsten Frei is calling for tougher EU sanctions on Russia, including potential bans on gas and uranium and using frozen Russian assets. As Berlin's tone hardens, Frei says Putin has no intent for peace and warns of continued Russian escalation.

Germany’s newly appointed chancellery chief, Thorsten Frei, is calling on Europe to move “out of its comfort zone” by imposing significantly tougher sanctions on Russia — including potential bans on gas and uranium imports and tapping into frozen Russian state assets.

In an interview with Reuters, Frei emphasized the need for measures that go beyond symbolic gestures. “We must adopt steps that truly have an impact — not just maintain the status quo,” said the conservative politician, who now serves as chief of staff to Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

His remarks come as the European Union and the United Kingdom announced fresh sanctions targeting Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” of oil tankers and financial institutions aiding Moscow in circumventing existing restrictions. However, Frei insists the next EU sanctions package must be even more forceful — even if it means affecting some EU member states economically.

Asked specifically about banning Russian gas and uranium imports, or accessing frozen Russian sovereign assets, Frei responded: “These are precisely the kinds of measures that would hit Russia where it hurts — and would achieve the intended effect of sanctions.”

Frei also voiced support for sanctioning the Nord Stream gas pipeline under the Baltic Sea.

Germany's new chancellor, Friedrich Merz, who took office earlier this month, has also indicated that Berlin is ready to push for the confiscation of Russian state assets — if legally feasible. He acknowledged ongoing discussions around additional energy sanctions.

The hardened stance follows Russia’s rejection of Europe’s call for a ceasefire, with Frei accusing Russian President Vladimir Putin of “playing for time.” Frei argued that Moscow showed no genuine interest in peace, pointing to recent negotiations in Istanbul that were followed by intensified Russian attacks.

“Putin wants to create military facts on the ground,” Frei said, suggesting the Kremlin still believes its war goals can be achieved militarily. “These are not exactly the right conditions for a quick peace.”

Frei did not rule out an increase in German military support for Ukraine. While the draft budget for 2025 earmarks €7 billion (about $8 billion), he suggested additional aid could be considered, though no specific figures were given.

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