EU Lifts Sanctions on Russian Billionaires Usmanov and Fridman Amid Broader Sanctions Renewal
What happened
On September 22, 2026, the European Union lifted sanctions against Russian billionaires Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman while renewing sanctions on approximately 3,000 others until 2029.
The Context
- Sanctions Background: The EU imposed sanctions on Russian oligarchs following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, requiring unanimous approval for renewals every six months.
- Negotiation Dynamics: France and Luxembourg pushed for the delisting to secure broader sanctions continuity, highlighting individual member states' influence on collective decisions.
- Ukrainian Response: Ukraine condemned the delisting as unjustifiable, reflecting ongoing tensions and the complexities of international diplomacy.
The Number
— This is the approximate number of individuals and entities whose sanctions were renewed, underscoring the EU's commitment to maintaining pressure on Russia despite internal disagreements.
Takeaway
Expect increased scrutiny on how individual sanctions are negotiated and the potential for further diplomatic tensions as the EU navigates its sanctions strategy.
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