EU sanctions on Russia show persistent internal divisions
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The European Union's latest sanctions package against Russia, described by critics as 'Swiss cheese' for its loopholes, exposes deep divisions among member states. The package, adopted after weeks of wrangling, includes new export restrictions but exempts key sectors such as liquefied natural gas and diamonds. The compromise underscores the bloc's struggle to maintain unity as the war in Ukraine enters its third year.
The Loopholes
The 14th sanctions package, adopted on June 24, 2024, targets Russian energy revenues and military procurement but contains significant exemptions. EU diplomats told RFE/RL that Hungary and Slovakia secured carve-outs for Russian oil imports via the Druzhba pipeline, while Belgium blocked restrictions on diamonds originating from Russia. The package also fails to address the shadow fleet of tankers transporting Russian crude above the G7 price cap, according to EU officials.
Divisions Among Members
The negotiations exposed a widening rift between hawkish states like Poland and the Baltic nations, which pushed for tougher measures, and countries such as Hungary and Austria, which prioritized economic ties. Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban threatened to veto the package unless oil transit rights were guaranteed, delaying adoption by two weeks. The final text includes a clause allowing member states to request exemptions for humanitarian reasons, a provision critics say weakens enforcement.
Impact on Enforcement
The European Commission estimates that the loopholes could reduce the package's effectiveness by up to 30%, according to internal documents cited by RFE/RL. The EU's own sanctions watchdog, the European External Action Service, warned that the exemptions create 'significant enforcement gaps.' Meanwhile, Russia has adapted by increasing trade through third countries like Kazakhstan and Turkey, which have seen a surge in re-exports of sanctioned goods.
What's Next
The European Commission is expected to propose a 15th sanctions package in September 2024, focusing on closing loopholes and targeting the shadow fleet. It remains unclear whether member states can overcome their differences to adopt more robust measures, as Hungary has signaled it will continue to demand concessions.
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EU sanctions on Russia show persistent internal divisions
