EU Envoys Extend Russia Sanctions by One Week

European Union envoys have extended the current sanctions regime against Russia by seven days, pushing the expiry date from September 15 to September 22. The decision was reached by the Committee of Permanent Representatives, known as Coreper, after member states failed to reach a consensus on a standard six-month renewal.

The sanctions, which include travel bans and asset freezes, currently apply to nearly 3,000 individuals and companies. Under EU rules, the continuation of these measures requires unanimous approval from all 27 member states.

The delay in reaching an agreement stems from a disagreement regarding the status of Russian-Uzbek billionaire Alisher Usmanov. Slovakia and France have both advocated for his removal from the sanctions list, citing national security concerns.

A diplomatic source noted that France remains committed to maintaining pressure on Russia and supporting Ukraine, but indicated that the request to de-list Mr. Usmanov is a specific national security matter involving international partners. The French foreign ministry has declined to comment on the situation.

The seven-day extension is intended to provide member states with additional time to review the renewal proposals. Unless a unanimous agreement is reached by midnight on September 22, the current sanctions regime will expire.