1. United States
2. Wash.
3. Letter

Russia's rejection of a 30-day ceasefire unless the West halts weapon supplies to Ukraine is unacceptable and undermines diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. By moving the goalposts and imposing unreasonable conditions, the Kremlin demonstrates its lack of genuine commitment to a peaceful resolution. This continued escalation and refusal to consider impartial proposals should prompt further economic and political sanctions against Russia. Penalizing Moscow's belligerent actions through increased pressure is a necessary step to incentivize cooperation and bring an end to the needless suffering in Ukraine. Without consequences for obstructing ceasefires, Russia has no motivation to pursue a diplomatic solution. Tougher multilateral sanctions calibrated to Russia's intransigence are now required.