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.
Russia has recalled its ambassador to Armenia for consultations, citing Yerevan's growing rapprochement with the European Union. The move is seen as t...
At least 22 people have been killed - including children - and 35 others injured after a truck carrying Afghan returnees overturned in eastern Afghani...
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has urged Asian allies to increase military spending, warning of growing concern over China’s rapid military exp...
Thai rescuers say five people have been pulled alive from a flooded cave in remote Laos, where seven villagers became trapped after heavy rain cut off...
Three Latvian climbers have died after falling on Mount McKinley in Alaska’s Denali National Park and Preserve, authorities and a Latvian climbing o...
Russia has recalled its ambassador to Armenia for consultations, citing Yerevan's growing rapprochement with the European Union. The move is seen as the latest sign of deteriorating relations between the longtime allies ahead of Armenia's parliamentary election on 7 June.
Thai rescuers say five people have been pulled alive from a flooded cave in remote Laos, where seven villagers became trapped after heavy rain cut off access underground.
Start your day informed with the AnewZ Morning Brief. Here are the top stories for 30 May, covering the latest developments you need to know.
The United Nations (UN) added Israel and Russia to a blacklist of parties suspected of committing conflict-related sexual violence on Friday (29 May). The move prompted Israel to announce it would sever ties with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
A group of Azerbaijani civil society organisations has called for increased scrutiny of Swiss building materials giant Holcim, citing court rulings and ongoing investigations linked to its subsidiary Lafarge's activities during the Syrian conflict.
The World Health Organization (WHO) says ongoing conflict, funding pressures and international travel restrictions are complicating efforts to contain a fast-growing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Thai rescuers say five people have been pulled alive from a flooded cave in remote Laos, where seven villagers became trapped after heavy rain cut off access underground.
Russia and Kazakhstan signed 15 agreements during President Vladimir Putin’s state visit to Astana on Thursday (28 May), including deals on Kazakhstan’s first nuclear power plant and expanded oil cooperation with Russia.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has urged Asian allies to increase military spending, warning of growing concern over China’s rapid military expansion and wider activities in the region.
Thai rescuers say five people have been pulled alive from a flooded cave in remote Laos, where seven villagers became trapped after heavy rain cut off access underground.
Three Latvian climbers have died after falling on Mount McKinley in Alaska’s Denali National Park and Preserve, authorities and a Latvian climbing organisation have said
Start your day informed with the AnewZ Morning Brief. Here are the top stories for 30 May, covering the latest developments you need to know.
Voting has begun in Malta’s parliamentary election, with opinion polls suggesting the ruling Labour Party is on course to win a fourth consecutive term.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment