The Continued Pressure on Russia: EU Sanctions and Global Coordination
On December 9, 2025, the European Union (EU) decided to extend sanctions against over 2,500 individuals and entities associated with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This blacklist includes prominent figures such as President Vladimir Putin, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, and various oligarchs and military officials. Their actions have been deemed detrimental to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The sanctions also highlight serious human rights violations, particularly the abduction of Ukrainian children from occupied territories—a war crime for which Putin faces international condemnation. The extension of these sanctions was finalized during an EU ambassadors’ meeting in Brussels, just before a legal deadline, emphasizing the bloc’s commitment to holding Russia accountable.
The decision to prolong the sanctions encountered significant debate, notably from Hungary and Slovakia, which sought the removal of certain individuals from the blacklist. This contention reflects ongoing tensions within the EU regarding its unified approach to sanctions. Earlier in the year, Hungary had successfully removed three names from the list, showcasing these countries’ abilities to use their veto powers for concessions. However, despite extensive discussions, the EU maintained its stance, opting to renew the sanctions for another six months rather than transitioning to a longer 12-month term, which had been initially proposed by the Danish presidency of the EU Council. This failed amendment illustrates the complexities of ensuring unanimity among member states while pursuing a cohesive foreign policy.
Hungary and Slovakia’s reluctance to fully endorse sanctions against Russia underscores the broader struggle within the EU to maintain a united front. Both nations have expressed dissent regarding the sanctions, although they have not halted them altogether. Their influences have frustrated other member states that favor a tougher stance against Russia, revealing the difficulties in achieving consensus in a diverse political landscape. The EU’s attempts to establish a longer sanctions framework faced similar obstacles, as proposals to protect Russian assets from veto manipulation also failed. This ongoing discord complicates the EU’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to developments related to the conflict in Ukraine.
The renewed sanctions come amid a shifting strategy between European leaders and the United States, as both sides aim to pressure Moscow. However, their approaches differ significantly. While the White House is advocating for imposing strict tariffs on China and India—key importers of Russian oil—the EU focuses on refining its economic sanctions. These measures are aimed at dismantling the networks that allow for the circumvention of existing sanctions, particularly targeting what is referred to as the “shadow fleet.” The EU remains determined to accelerate its phase-out of Russian fossil fuels, with plans for completion by the end of 2027, reflecting a strategic pivot towards energy independence.
High Representative Kaja Kallas emphasized the EU’s commitment to maintaining pressure on Russia, stating, "We just extended our sanctions on Russia." The bloc is on the brink of finalizing its 19th sanctions package, which aims to further limit Russian oil sales and restrict the activities of banks and oil tankers that facilitate circumvention. This intensive campaign aims not only to apply economic pressure on the Kremlin but also to diminish financial resources supporting military actions. The EU’s determination to "choke off the cash for Putin’s war" highlights the ongoing commitment to countering Russia’s aggressions through economic means.
The geopolitical dynamics surrounding the conflict have become even more intricate, particularly as reactions to incidents such as drone incursions into Polish airspace surface. Former President Donald Trump’s remarks suggested a misunderstanding of the severity of such incidents, aligning more with Kremlin rhetoric. This sparked a firm response from Polish Prime Minister Donald Trump, who insisted on acknowledging the reality of the situation rather than dismissing it as a mere mistake. This exchange symbolizes a growing concern within Europe regarding the consistency and reliability of American leadership in maintaining pressure on Russia, which could influence future international alliances and strategies in dealing with the ongoing conflict.
