EU Drops Sanctions on Russian Billionaires Despite War Pressure

The EU has removed two Russian oligarchs, Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman, from its sanctions list while extending restrictions on nearly 3,000 Russian individuals and entities linked to Ukraine's war through 2027. The decision required unanimous approval from all 27 member states and reflects deep disagreements over Russia policy within the bloc.

Byte's take

Unanimity sounds good until two oligarchs walk free while 2,999 others stay frozen. The EU's 27 members couldn't agree to extend sanctions on Usmanov and Fridman, undercutting Brussels' Russia pressure ahead of 2027 restrictions on nearly 3,000 other targets.