EU begins discussions on 21st sanctions package against Russia

EU ambassadors have begun discussions on a 21st package of sanctions against Russia, though no practical decisions are expected in the near term.

A diplomatic source in Brussels said the bloc’s permanent representatives started reviewing proposals put forward by the European Commission for a new package of restrictive measures targeting Russia and Belarus, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

“The EU’s permanent representatives today began discussing the European Commission’s proposals for the 21st package of restrictive measures against Russia and Belarus. This discussion will take time, as its approval requires a unanimous compromise decision,” the diplomat said.

According to the source, the European Commission is seeking approval of the sanctions package by EU member states during June.

On June 9, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen unveiled the proposed 21st sanctions package, aimed primarily at Russia’s oil exports and banking sector.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov