Ukraine anger as EU removes Russian oligarchs from sanctions list
Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman both have close ties to President Putin, and Kyiv said the move sent Moscow the wrong signals.
The European Union's decision to remove several Russian oligarchs, including Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman, from its sanctions list has sparked outrage in Ukraine. The move is seen as a significant shift in the EU's stance on Russia, particularly given the oligarchs' close ties to President Vladimir Putin. Kyiv's reaction suggests that Ukraine feels the decision undermines its own efforts to pressure Russia over the ongoing conflict.
This development comes at a critical time in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The EU had previously imposed sanctions on these oligarchs as part of a broader effort to pressure Russia over its actions in Ukraine. The decision to lift sanctions may be seen as a sign of divisions within the EU over its approach to Russia, and could potentially embolden Moscow. Industry experts will be watching to see how this move affects the EU's overall strategy on Russia and whether it leads to any changes in the Ukrainian government's approach.
What's next to watch is how the EU's decision affects the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the response from other Western governments. The US and other allies have been closely aligned with the EU on sanctions, so it will be important to see if they follow suit or maintain their own tougher stance on Russia. Additionally, the reaction from other oligarchs and Russian business leaders could provide insight into the potential implications of this move and whether it leads to any significant shifts in the Russian economy or politics.
Originally reported by bbc.co.uk. MyNews adds analysis for general news readers.