The European Union announced plans to lift sanctions against two individuals following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The decision affects Alisher Usmanov, a Russian-Uzbek billionaire whose removal from the sanctions list was championed by France on grounds of national security concerns. Luxembourg advocated for the delisting of Mikhail Fridman, a Russian-Israeli businessman who has pursued legal action against the country regarding frozen assets.
Ukrainian officials characterized the move as unacceptable and expressed concern about its implications for deterring Russian aggression. Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha stated that the action undermines European unity and sends a message of permissiveness toward Moscow. He called on all EU member states to implement independent national sanctions against both individuals, with Latvia indicating it would take such measures.
Usmanov established USM Holding, an investment firm controlling iron, steel, and copper suppliers, as well as the Megafon telecommunications company. European authorities had frozen his assets in 2022, citing his status as a pro-Kremlin figure with close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Fridman founded the Alfa Group investment conglomerate with significant interests in energy and banking sectors. European officials have characterized him as a prominent Russian financier connected to Putin’s inner circle.
Latvia initially opposed the delisting but shifted to abstaining on the matter after a compromise arrangement was negotiated. The agreement extended sanctions on approximately 2,600 remaining individuals and entities for three years, rather than requiring renewal every six months. Reports indicate France linked its initiative to prospective prisoner exchange negotiations with Azerbaijan. Additionally, France agreed to commence discussions with Latvia regarding participation in a French nuclear deterrence framework and to expand military presence in the country. The Kremlin responded positively to the delistings, with a spokesperson claiming European sanctions were unlawful and suggesting all Russian nationals should be removed from such restrictions.
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