EU prolongs Russia sanctions until 2029, removes two oligarchs after heated talks

On 22 September, the Council of the European Union confirmed that restrictive measures against individuals and entities deemed to threaten Ukraine’s sovereignty will remain active until 22 September 2029, extending the previous renewal cycle by three years. The sanctions, covering over 3,000 names, continue to freeze assets, limit travel and prohibit financial dealings. After protracted negotiations, the EU removed Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman from the list, with France advocating for Usmanov’s exit and Luxembourg supporting Fridman’s delisting.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha denounced the decision as unjustifiable, urging member states to apply national measures. Estonia’s foreign minister, Margus Tsahkna, also opposed the delistings and announced national sanctions, while Latvia abstained after initially resisting. The extension reduces the frequency of future renewal debates, though it highlights divisions within the bloc over individual sanctions.