This morning in Berlin, President von der Leyen and Senator Lindsey Graham discussed EU-US coordination on sanctions against Russia. President von der Leyen stressed the need for a real ceasefire and negotiations with Russia to end the war. Senator Graham agreed to increase pressure on Russia and advance legislation in the Senate next week.

The EU is preparing its 18th package of sanctions targeting Russias energy revenues, including Nord Stream infrastructure and the banking sector, and lowering the crude oil price cap.

Joint measures by the EU and US would significantly increase the impact of our sanctions, said President von der Leyen. These steps, along with actions against Russias shadow fleet, limit Russias capacity to transport oil, drying up the Kremlins resources to fund the war.

President von der Leyen and Senator Graham also discussed the issue of 20,000 abducted Ukrainian children and possible further pressure on Russia.

On the tariff dispute, both sides agreed that a negotiated solution within the 90-day period would be the best scenario.