Brussels, Belgium – The European Union is teeing up another round of sanctions against Russia, aiming to coincide with the second anniversary of the Ukraine invasion on February 24. This confirmation from an EU spokesperson on Thursday marks the latest development in the ongoing economic and political pressure campaign against Moscow.
“Yes, I can confirm that member-countries and the top diplomat intend to mark the second anniversary with new sanctions against Russia,” the spokesperson told reporters, emphasizing the ongoing work on the measures. “We are working on them and hope to achieve the result.”
This 13th package of sanctions, as reported by Bloomberg earlier this week, was the subject of discussions among EU representatives on Wednesday. Potential measures reportedly include expanding sanction lists, implementing additional trade restrictions, and devising strategies to counter Russia’s circumvention of existing sanctions.
The EU’s December 18th sanctions package, the 12th in total, targeted 61 individuals and 86 companies and organizations. These measures came amidst heightened tensions and escalating violence in Ukraine, with no clear end to the conflict in sight.
The impending February 24th sanctions package serves as a stark reminder of the EU’s unwavering commitment to pressuring Russia and supporting Ukraine. While the specific details of the new measures remain under wraps, their symbolic timing on the invasion anniversary underscores the bloc’s resolve in holding Russia accountable for its actions.
The effectiveness of these sanctions, however, remains a subject of debate. Proponents argue that they cripple Russia’s economy, weaken its military capacity, and isolate it from the international community. Critics, on the other hand, point to potential unintended consequences, such as economic backlash for EU member states and the possibility of driving Russia closer to China.