European Union (EU) Foreign Policy Chief, Kaja Kallas, declared that there was no reason to lift the sanctions imposed on Russia in a firm statement made on Friday. These sanctions, she stressed, are an essential leverage for the EU, especially in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine, which began when Russia invaded in February 2022. “We definitely need sanctions. It’s our leverage, and it would be very strange to give it up,” Kallas explained. The EU has already imposed 15 rounds of unprecedented sanctions against Russia, targeting its economy, leadership, and industries linked to the war effort.
Despite these measures, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has made it clear that he intends to block the extension of these sanctions. Orban, a long-time ally of former US President Donald Trump and a friendlier leader towards Moscow, has called for a shift in EU relations with Russia. He argued that the EU must adapt to a “new era,” suggesting that sanctions should be thrown “out the window.” Orban’s stance is driven by the expectation of Trump’s return to office, as he believes Trump will lead the way towards a new relationship with Russia, one without sanctions. “Right now, the signals from Brussels are not encouraging,” Orban added, indicating his frustration with the EU’s stance.
Kallas, however, firmly opposed the idea of easing the sanctions. She argued that removing the sanctions would significantly weaken the EU’s position in any negotiations. “Nothing has changed. Putin’s goals remain the same, and Russia continues its military advances in Ukraine,” she stated. According to Kallas, lifting sanctions at this stage would only empower Russia and harm the EU’s bargaining power, making it difficult to negotiate on more favourable terms.
European diplomats have expressed concern as time runs out for a decision on the extension of sanctions, which must be unanimously approved by all 27 EU member states by January 31. If Hungary continues to block the extension, Moscow could be in a position to seize more than €200 billion of frozen assets held in European banks. Meanwhile, the situation on the ground in Ukraine remains dire, with Russia continuing its brutal campaign in the east of the country. The destruction of towns and villages continues unabated, and Ukraine’s territorial integrity remains at risk.
Kallas also pointed out that, contrary to Orban’s stance, lifting sanctions would not be in the best interest of the United States either, as it would diminish the pressure on Russia to change its behaviour.
