EU’s ‘Plan B’ If Trump Administration Ends Ukraine War Efforts

The European Union is preparing a ‘Plan B’ regarding economic sanctions against Russia in case the Trump administration abandons negotiations for ending the war in Ukraine and seeks rapprochement with Moscow, stated EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kalas in an interview with the Financial Times on April 30, 2025. Proposals by Donald Trump for economic engagement with Moscow as part of a peace agreement have fueled concerns that some EU countries will demand Brussels also move to lift EU sanctions against Russia in the coming months. President Trump had promised to quickly end the over three-year-long Russian war against Ukraine but failed to enforce a peace agreement during his first 100 days in office, as both Moscow and Kiev rejected elements of his government’s proposals. Kalas noted signs that the U.S. might abandon Ukraine and not pursue an agreement with Russia due to difficulties. She emphasized that while there is a Plan B, efforts must focus on Plan A to avoid its inevitable occurrence. Discussions continue with Washington and other partners to ensure Western sanctions against Russia remain in place. However, Kalas acknowledged debates in certain EU capitals about following Trump’s lead if he abandons Ukraine and restores relations with Russia. As part of their peace proposals, the U.S. has offered to lift sanctions against Moscow—imposed jointly with the EU—and restart economic cooperation, particularly in energy sectors. Hungary has threatened to veto the unanimous vote required at the end of July for extending the EU sanctions regime.