European Commissioner for Economic Affairs Valdis Dombrovskis stated that despite changes in the US sanctions policy on Russia, the European Union will continue its own approach. He confirmed that work is ongoing for the EU’s 16th sanctions package.
Ahead of the EU Finance Ministers Meeting in Brussels, Dombrovskis also highlighted plans to relax budget rules to allow increased defense spending. He emphasized the need for Europe to strengthen its security and support for Ukraine, noting that the European Commission is working on financial flexibility for defense funding. The move follows US President Donald Trump’s calls for Europe to finance its own defense, with EU leaders now considering exemptions for defense spending from budget limits.