European Council President Antonio Costa said on Monday that the European Union has “stabilized” its relationship with the United States, calling Washington “our most important ally” on matters of defense, NATO, trade, and Ukraine.
Speaking ahead of fresh transatlantic discussions, Costa noted that the EU and the US are now working to align sanctions on Russia to increase their effectiveness and step up pressure on President Vladimir Putin to engage in negotiations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
He did not comment directly on US President Donald Trump’s remarks that some EU leaders will travel to Washington on Monday for talks on Ukraine but stressed that Washington remains committed to Europe’s security priorities.
“The US is committed to supporting future security guarantees to ensure a lasting peace in Ukraine,” Costa said.
19th Russia sanctions package in focus
Costa also confirmed that the EU is preparing its 19th package of sanctions against Russia, in close coordination with the US and other partners.
Key measures under consideration include:
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Targeting Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” used to evade restrictions on energy exports.
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Introducing secondary sanctions on countries purchasing Russian oil and gas despite embargoes.
The EU says the coordinated measures aim to cut Russia’s ability to finance its war and tighten global enforcement, particularly against loopholes exploited by third countries.
The announcement comes as fighting in Ukraine intensifies, with Kyiv warning that Russia has stepped up airstrikes on energy and civilian infrastructure.
