France, May 21 -- European powers have forged ahead with fresh sanctions on Russia, intensifying pressure on Moscow - and on Washington - to act decisively for a credible peace agreement in Ukraine.

France has joined Britain and the European Union in unveiling a fresh round of sanctions against Russia, targeting the Kremlin's efforts to dodge existing restrictions through shadowy oil shipments and financial networks.

The new measures, announced on Tuesday, come as European leaders ramp up pressure on the United States to follow suit after a recent call between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin failed to produce any breakthrough on a ceasefire in Ukraine.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot struck a def...