Europe Extends Russia Sanctions: A 6-Month Move

Europe's leaders have given the green light for a six-month extension of sanctions against Russia, targeting various sectors like trade, finance, and energy. This decision came after Hungary lifted its objections, removing a significant roadblock. The sanctions, originally introduced in 2014 after the annexation of Crimea by Russia, have been significantly ramped up since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine three years ago. Hungary's Prime Minister, Viktor Orbán, recently called for EU intervention in a gas dispute with Ukraine, arguing that Ukraine's halt on Russian gas transit to Central Europe had forced Hungary to find alternative routes, driving up energy prices. To address Hungary’s concerns, the European Commission included a statement with the sanctions agreement emphasizing the need for all third countries to respect EU energy security and warned of potential action to protect critical infrastructure. This decision by the EU mirrors previous expectations from diplomats and officials who had anticipated Hungary would back down from its threatened blockade. Notably, a call from former U. S. President Donald Trump to end the war in Ukraine may have influenced the situation, given Orbán's admiration for Trump and his close ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin. All 27 EU member states must agree for sanctions to be prolonged, which has now been achieved.