European Commission spokeswoman Arianna Podesta stated that Europe may implement its 19th round of sanctions against Russia in September. She emphasized that Europe recognizes the effectiveness of sanctions, and therefore, will continue to utilize them in order to continue applying pressure on Russia.
Meanwhile, the White House reported that US President Donald Trump would prefer not to impose new sanctions on Russia because his focus is on diplomacy. However, spokeswoman Karoline Levitt added that Trump is prepared to impose sanctions, if necessary, as part of the peace process.
Additionally, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said European countries should be ready, if needed, to support US sanctions and tariffs on Russia or Russian oil buyers if peace negotiations between President Trump and President Vladimir Putin fail. He indicated that Russian sanctions could be tightened or relaxed depending on the outcome of the meeting between the presidents in Alaska.