France and Germany advocate for heightened sanctions on Russia while the US Senate looks to implement new restrictions ahead of the G7 summit.

French President Emmanuel Macron has called on the US to enact sanctions targeting Russia if Moscow remain unwilling to cease hostilities in Ukraine.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has also pushed for stronger US sanctions to pressure the Kremlin into authentic peace negotiations with Ukraine.

Furthermore, Thorsten Frei, head of the German Chancellor’s office, believes the topic of confiscating Russian assets should be reconsidered, given Russia’s refusal to pursue peace and the increased intensity of its attacks.

Meanwhile, US Republican Senator Lindsey Graham revealed plans to introduce new sanctions against Russia prior to the G7 summit, set to take place from June 15-17 in Canada. In a joint statement with Democrat Richard Blumenthal, the senators stressed that any new sanctions must be implemented in collaboration with Europe by mid-June to deliver a strong message to China, India, and other countries assisting the Kremlin in circumventing international sanctions.

“If you want to end this war, force China to help stop it,” Graham stated.