Removing restrictions on weapons aid to Ukraine and considering imposing new sanctions, Europe and the United States compete to increase pressure on Russia

**Source: Wall Street Journal**  

**Germany Lifts Restrictions on Ukraine's Use of Western Weapons Against Russian Targets, Sparking International Concern**  

German Chancellor Mertz stated on the 26th that Germany and its allies no longer restrict the range of weapons provided to Ukraine, allowing Kyiv to strike military targets inside Russia with Western arms—a move that has drawn widespread international attention. Given Mertz's previous public support for supplying Ukraine with Germany's Taurus cruise missiles before taking office, observers believe this announcement may pave the way for such deliveries. However, the remarks have drawn warnings from Moscow and domestic opposition in Germany, with critics arguing it could "ultimately bring war to Germany." Meanwhile, U.S. media reports reveal that President Trump, frustrated with slow progress in peace talks, is considering imposing new sanctions on Russia this week. Yet sources suggest that despite his recent tough rhetoric toward Putin, Trump has shown no real intention to pressure the Russian president and may instead signal a gradual withdrawal from mediating the conflict.  

### **"Could Ultimately Bring War to Germany"**  

Speaking at an event in Berlin on the 26th, Chancellor Mertz declared:  

*"Whether it's weapons from Britain, France, us—or the U.S.—there are no longer range restrictions. This means Ukraine can defend itself by striking military targets inside Russia."*  

Ukraine’s *Kyiv Independent* reported that Mertz clarified during a visit to Finland on the 27th that his earlier statement merely reflected what had already been happening for months: Ukraine’s right to use received weapons against military targets on Russian soil.  

The *Financial Times* noted that Mertz had previously expressed willingness to supply Taurus missiles to Kyiv if coordinated with European allies—a stark contrast to former Chancellor Scholz, who repeatedly rejected such requests.  

The announcement has stirred controversy in Germany. Vice Chancellor Klingbeil of the SPD denied any shift in policy, stating:  

*"Regarding range restrictions, there is no new agreement that goes beyond what the previous government decided."*  

Meanwhile, Sahra Wagenknecht, leader of the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance, warned the move *"could ultimately bring war to Germany,"* while Green Party deputy parliamentary leader Agnieszka Brugger welcomed it and urged Taurus deliveries.  

In response, Kremlin spokesperson Peskov called the decisions of some European nations *"highly dangerous"* and counterproductive to conflict resolution. On the 27th, he reiterated that continued Western arms supplies to Kyiv amount to indirect participation in the war against Russia.  

Russian newspaper *Kommersant* cited expert analysis suggesting political hurdles remain for Taurus transfers, but if Western-supplied weapons strike strategic Russian sites, escalation would be inevitable—potentially prompting Moscow to respond with heavier arms or expanded military operations.  

### **U.S. Media: Trump May Sanction Russia This Week**  

The *Times* of London noted that before Mertz’s remarks, Trump issued his *"strongest criticism yet"* of Putin:  

*"I’m unhappy with what Putin has done... Continuing to try to seize all of Ukraine would lead to Russia’s downfall."*  

The *Wall Street Journal* reported on the 26th that Trump, frustrated with stalled peace talks, is considering new sanctions on Russia this week. Sources said banking sanctions are unlikely, but other options are being weighed to pressure Moscow at the negotiating table—though Trump may still opt against action.  

Insiders revealed Trump is growing weary of mediation and may abandon talks entirely if final efforts fail. The *WSJ* questioned what impact a U.S. withdrawal would have on the conflict.  

CNN analyzed that while Trump could impose sanctions or push Congress to approve new arms shipments, the latter would be politically awkward given his opposition to massive Ukraine aid. Alternatively, he might abandon mediation, declaring neither side wants peace—a scenario Kyiv and Europe fear, as it could legitimize Russia’s territorial gains.  

On the 26th, Germany’s *Süddeutsche Zeitung* reported that EU-U.S. talks on jointly combating sanctions evasion have collapsed, ending coordinated efforts.  

### **Lavrov: "Istanbul Was Very Good"**  

The *FT* noted Mertz’s comments come as European leaders race to ramp up pressure on Moscow. British PM Starmer will meet Mertz in Aachen on the 29th to discuss tightening economic sanctions and ensuring Ukraine’s military funding.  

However, divisions are growing among the U.K., France, and Germany over postwar support. While London and Paris still back plans for eventual troop deployments, Berlin and others remain skeptical without U.S. approval.  

Ukrainian President Zelensky accused Russia of launching over 900 drones and missiles in three days, calling it *"devoid of military logic but clearly a political choice."* He warned Moscow is *"preparing a new offensive."*  

Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed its forces intercepted 99 Ukrainian drones overnight, while Ukraine’s General Staff reported downing 43 of 60 drones and 170 frontline clashes.  

Meanwhile, Russian FM Lavrov, after meeting Turkish counterpart Fidan in Moscow, praised Istanbul as *"very good"* for potential renewed talks. Fidan is expected in Kyiv soon to follow up on earlier negotiations.  

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