The EU is discussing a proposal that could remove sanctions on Russia-linked billionaires Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman while continuing restrictions on thousands of other individuals and organizations connected to Russia.
EU ambassadors are working to reach an agreement that would lift sanctions on the two businessmen and renew sanctions against around 3,000 Russia-linked individuals and entities for another three years, according to diplomats.
The proposal has created divisions among European Union member states, with some countries opposing the move while others support it as part of a wider agreement to maintain sanctions on a larger group.
European Union Reviews Sanctions Imposed After Ukraine Invasion
The EU placed sanctions on Usmanov and Fridman in 2022 after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The restrictions include:
- A ban on travel within the EU
- Freezing of assets held in EU countries
At the time, the EU said Usmanov had “particularly close ties” with Russian President Vladimir Putin. It also accused Fridman of supporting actions or policies that threatened Ukraine’s territorial integrity and independence.
Both businessmen have denied the allegations and challenged the sanctions through legal action.
France and Luxembourg Push for Changes
France and Luxembourg pushed for removing Usmanov and Fridman from the European sanctions list. Diplomats said France supported lifting sanctions on Usmanov, while Luxembourg requested similar treatment for Fridman.
France said its decision regarding Usmanov involved national security concerns and followed a request from partners. Luxembourg argued that its legal position in a case involving Fridman could become weaker if sanctions were removed from Usmanov.
Some EU Countries Oppose the Proposal
Several EU countries, including the Baltic states, have raised concerns about lifting sanctions. Latvia has not approved the proposal so far and said European Union countries are still coordinating their positions.
The country had previously taken legal action to keep sanctions against Fridman and his business partner Petr Aven.
Lithuania also opposed the move, warning that removing sanctions could send the wrong message about the EU’s approach toward Russia-related restrictions.
EU Plans Longer Sanctions Renewal Period
While discussions continue over Usmanov and Fridman, diplomats said most European Union countries appear prepared to support a broader agreement that would renew sanctions on thousands of other individuals and organizations.
The proposed agreement would extend those sanctions for 36 months, a longer period compared with the usual six- or twelve-month renewal cycle.
Ukraine Urges EU to Maintain Pressure
Ukraine has urged the European Union not to ease sanctions against Russia-linked individuals.
The Prime Minister of Ukraine, Sergii Koretskyi, called on Europe to maintain sanctions, saying Russia’s ongoing attacks on Ukraine require continued action.
The European Union has not yet reached a final decision, and member states are continuing discussions on the proposal.
Original Source:
Reuters—The EU continues talks on a deal to lift sanctions on Russia-linked billionaires Usmanov and Fridman, diplomats say.
Reuters Original Report
Reuters Sanctions Renewal Report Reuters—EU renews Russia sanctions, drops Russian billionaires Usmanov and Fridman
Reuters Follow-up Report
