EU to lift sanctions on Russia-linked Usmanov and Fridman, diplomats say

The move was reported by Reuters, the Financial Times and Politico.eu, which all noted that the decision coincided with a looming deadline for the renewal of sanctions that expires later in the month. Coverage from Reuters and Bloomberg highlighted immediate backlash from several member states. Latvia’s prime minister publicly opposed the deal, a stance echoed in reports by Euronews, Yahoo and Bloomberg that Latvia blocked the proposal to remove Usmanov. The Washington Post reported that France intervened to block the broader sanctions renewal in an effort to protect Usmanov, while the Financial Times analysed how France and Luxembourg’s actions have weakened the EU’s sanctions framework.

The Guardian and Reuters both described the controversy as intensifying as the deadline approaches. The current debate reflects a split between countries seeking a hard line on Russian wealth and those advocating selective relief for business figures with extensive ties to European economies. The involvement of France and Luxembourg, as noted by the Financial Times, suggests a strategic push to soften the regime for specific oligarchs while preserving overall pressure on Moscow. Future reporting will need to track whether the EU finalises the exemption before the renewal deadline and how dissenting members such as Latvia respond to any final text.

Observers will watch for additional statements from French officials, as the Washington Post indicates their role in shaping the outcome. The continuation of talks, referenced by Reuters as ongoing, will determine whether the EU can present a unified sanctions package or whether internal opposition forces a revision of the exemption for Usmanov and Fridman.