Part 2/10:
A significant focus of the meeting was on the sanctions imposed on Russia over the past three years. The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, responded assertively to a question regarding the United States’ suggestion for Europe to consider sanctions relief as part of a peace agreement. Von der Leyen emphasized that sanctions have already had a profound effect on the Russian economy, resulting in skyrocketing inflation and widespread corporate withdrawal from the country. She asserted that any discussion about lifting sanctions would only occur if substantial action towards a lasting and just peace was observed from Russia.