Europe rejects Trump’s attempt to remove sanctions on Russia, disrupting Black Sea ceasefire

European leaders have been clear that they will not support President Donald Trump’s efforts to assist Russia in returning to the global market and lifting international sanctions unless Russia stops its illegal actions in the Black Sea. This stance effectively means that the Black Sea ceasefire agreement is no longer considered viable.

This week, the Trump administration claimed progress in talks with Ukraine and Russia, stating that both countries had agreed to cease the use of force in the Black Sea. However, the Kremlin later clarified that this agreement hinged on the lifting of international economic sanctions.

“Russia will not dictate the support we offer and will continue to offer Ukraine, nor will they be able to set any terms,” French President Emmanuel Macron was quoted saying as he stood alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Wednesday evening.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, French President Emmanuel Macron and Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer speak during a meeting at Elysee Palace in Paris, March 27, 2025. (Ludovic Marin/Pool via Reuters)

“His promises are hollow,” the statement added. “The U.S. is playing a leading role by convening the ceasefire talks, President Zelenskyy has demonstrated his commitment repeatedly, and Europe is stepping up to play its part to defend Ukraine’s future. 

“Now Putin needs to show he’s willing to play ball,” Starmer said.

France on Wednesday pledged another $2.1 billion for Kyiv in its continued fight against Russia, and more pledges of support are expected to be announced Thursday. 

The White House did not respond to Fox News Digital’s questions on the apparent collapse of the Black Sea ceasefire. 

President Donald Trump meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the G-20 summit in Osaka, Japan, on June 28, 2019. (Kremlin Press Office/Handout/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images)

Though earlier in the week, following the Kremlin’s list of economic relief demands, a spokesperson for the White House said, “Our engagement is continuing. We agreed on language with both parties in our work towards a cessation of hostilities.”

The spokesperson said “the Russians engaged us…with requests for more negotiations.”

“President Trump believes in diplomacy and in giving diplomacy every chance to succeed,” the spokesperson added.