The European Union is once again engaged in heated debates over sanctions against influential Russian citizens, many of whom not only support Russian dictator Vladimir Putin’s policies but also his war in Ukraine. Discussions have begun, with a decision on sanctions expected on the 10th of September.
This time, the spotlight is again on Latvian citizen Pyotr Avens, as Radio Free Europe reports that several countries are demanding the removal of six individuals from the sanctions list, most of whom remain closely linked to the Kremlin.
It has already been reported that Latvia continues to insist on keeping Avens on the sanctions list, despite the European Union Court ruling that the sanctions were not justified and Avens having “done his homework” by selling his assets in Russia and relocating to Latvia.
According to Radio Free Europe, a similar scenario could unfold as six months ago (during the last sanctions review period), when—under the “pressure” of certain countries—several controversial figures were removed from the list. Among them were Russia’s Minister of Sports Mikhail Degtyaryov, who still praises the war; billionaire Vyacheslav Kantor; and Gulbakhor Ismailova, sister of Russia’s richest man, Alisher Usmanov.
New names have surfaced in the current diplomatic negotiations,
RFE writes. Slovakia is lobbying for Alisher Usmanov and billionaire Mikhail Fridman, who has since moved back to Russia. Meanwhile, Hungary’s list includes Dmitry Mazepin (with ties to Latvia’s business environment), Musa Bazhaev, Albert Avdolyan, and Latvian citizen Pyotr Avens.
A similar scenario played out six months ago when Latvia opposed its own citizen yet agreed to the removal of Degtyaryov, Kantor, and Ismailova. It should be recalled that sanctions decisions are made unanimously—if any member state votes against, the decision is blocked.
Diplomatic circles are now questioning whether Latvia will once again insist, for unclear reasons, on keeping Avens on the list, while other Kremlin-linked individuals are removed.
As RFE notes, Hungary and Slovakia are trying to pressure Brussels into lifting sanctions on six individuals as a condition for supporting the next sanctions package. Negotiations and “horse-trading” continue.
Read also: Baiba Braže to be sued for denigration of honour and dignity