In a Telegram post, Medvedev argued that EU sanctions had consistently failed to weaken Russia’s resolve or alter the trajectory of the war. “Strikes against targets in so-called Ukraine, including Kyiv, will be carried out with increasing force,” he said. Known as one of the Kremlin’s most hawkish voices, Medvedev framed the sanctions as a political gesture with minimal real-world impact.

The EU’s latest sanctions aim to tighten enforcement of the oil price cap and further restrict energy sector revenues, key to Russia’s wartime budget. Despite these efforts, Medvedev reiterated Moscow’s readiness to absorb economic pressure while continuing its military operations.

In Washington, President Donald Trump unveiled a harder line against Moscow earlier this week, pledging to send a new batch of U.S. weaponry to Ukraine, including Patriot missile systems. Trump gave Russia 50 days to agree to a ceasefire or face additional U.S. sanctions. The ultimatum comes amid growing concerns that Russia is preparing for a renewed offensive, and as NATO states press for tougher economic countermeasures.

While Western leaders pursue diplomatic and economic tools to constrain Moscow, Russia’s rhetoric indicates it remains committed to military escalation. Analysts warn that both sides appear to be hardening their positions, potentially undermining ceasefire prospects in the short term.