ARCHIVE – European Union flags wave in the wind in front of the Europa building. Photo: Arne Immanuel Bänsch/dpa
Keystone
In the absence of progress in US President Donald Trump’s peace efforts for Ukraine, the European Union has extended its tough economic sanctions against Russia until January 31, 2026.
“As long as the unlawful actions of the Russian Federation continue to violate fundamental rules of international law – in particular the prohibition of the use of force – it is appropriate to maintain all measures imposed by the EU,” said the representation of the member states in Brussels. The sanctions are a reaction to “Russia’s unjustified, unwarranted and unlawful military aggression against Ukraine”.
For the vast majority of member states, it is a great relief that the extension of sanctions could be decided relatively quietly. Prior to this, there had been fears for weeks that Hungary could prevent the decision in order to support Trump’s peace efforts.
He is counting on a good relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin and had initially demanded concessions from Ukraine in particular for a ceasefire. For example, the US wants Ukraine to give up its ambitions to join Nato quickly and accept that part of its territory will remain permanently under Russian control.
18th package of Russia sanctions to follow soon
The EU’s economic sanctions against Russia include restrictions on trade, finance, the energy sector, industry, transportation and luxury goods. There is also a ban on the import of Russian crude oil by sea and a number of Russian banks have been disconnected from the Swift financial communication system.
An 18th package of sanctions against Russia is currently being prepared. Before agreeing, however, Slovakia is demanding a promise that it will be compensated if a plan by the EU Commission to stop imports of Russian gas leads to economic damage in Slovakia. This plan is not part of the sanctions package, but is so important to Slovakia that it is using the 18th sanctions package as leverage.