EU considers expanding sanctions against Russia
The European Union continues to discuss tightening of sanctions against Russia due to its actions in Syria although the EU countries have not reached a common position yet, Radio Poland reports. Ideas regarding tightening of the diplomatic sanctions against Russia emerged in discussions, particularly regarding the extension of a “black list” of people who would be prohibited from entering the EU and have their European financial assets frozen.
In particular, this is the view of Germany and Great Britain. There is also a proposal to tighten an export ban on technologies that can be used in arms manufacturing. But Radio Poland has learned from informed sources that such a restriction is unlikely because the EU countries have not reached a consensus.
The tone of the discussion has also changed after recent Syrian bombings. Until recently, there were doubts whether the European Union would reach a consensus regarding the extension of the current economic sanctions imposed after Russian aggression in Ukraine. Restrictions are set to terminate in January 2017, and several countries (Italy, Hungary, Greece and Cyprus) were of the opinion that the sanctions should be eased or lifted.
“Now, in the context of what is happening in Syria, these countries have lost their arguments in favor of improving relations with Russia,” European officials commented. Earlier, French President François Hollande criticized Russia’s policy in Ukraine and threatened new sanctions.