France Urges New Sanctions Package Against Russia Amid Ongoing Conflict

Daniel Kimani | AA

France calls for a 22nd EU sanctions package against Russia to increase pressure over Ukraine war, citing €500 billion in revenue denied to Moscow.

France has escalated its efforts to maintain pressure on Russia by calling for the preparation of a new package of European Union sanctions. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot announced the initiative, aiming to roll out the 22nd sanctions package in the near future.

This proposal comes as part of ongoing strategies to respond to Moscow’s actions in Ukraine. Barrot made these comments before attending an EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Luxembourg, underscoring the bloc's continued commitment to confronting the Russian military campaign.

Barrot emphasized the need for these measures, stating, 'We want all this to continue. That is why we are calling for the preparation, in the coming weeks, of a 22nd package of sanctions.'

Key Details of Proposed Sanctions

The proposed sanctions package includes 1,600 new listings targeting Russian individuals and entities tied to Russia's military-industrial complex. With this addition, the total number of designations by the EU will increase from 3,000 to 4,600 since the conflict began.

Deputy Barrot attributed significant financial impact on Russia due to past sanctions, asserting that they have deprived the Kremlin of €500 billion ($580 billion) which could have been used to support its military endeavors. This figure represents more than three years of military expenditure by Moscow.

Barrot further explained that the EU remains steadfast in its efforts to prevent Russia from bypassing these sanctions, noting, 'We will continue to exert pressure on the shadow fleet,' a reference to vessels used by Russia to circumvent international restrictions. France plans to host an international conference in Paris focusing on tackling these evasive measures.

Context and Broader Diplomatic Concerns

Aside from actions against Russia, Barrot condemned U.S. sanctions targeting the International Criminal Court (ICC), which may come into force within six months. He stressed the importance of dialogue between the U.S. and the EU to reverse these measures, stating, 'We want dialogue to begin, particularly between the European Union and the United States.'

Barrot reaffirmed the ICC's significance, describing it as a 'pillar of the architecture of international law' that must function without hindrance. If dialogues do not succeed, he suggested that Europe is prepared to activate the Blocking Statute to shield European entities from these sanctions.

Furthermore, Barrot condemned Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, highlighting a specific incident at Riyadh airport that resulted in multiple casualties, including severe injuries to a French national. 'These attacks must stop, because they pose dangers to the region and, more broadly, to the world that we cannot accept,' he added.

Urban and Policy Repercussions for European Cities

For urban centers across Europe, such as Paris, the proposed sanctions against Russia underscore the interconnected nature of global politics and local economies. European cities are likely to witness ripple effects from escalated sanctions, as they might influence trade relations and economic stability, prompting city leaders to reassess fiscal forecasts and supply chain dependencies.

Additionally, the Blocking Statute's potential activation has ramifications for cities throughout the EU. It signifies a collective municipal and national effort to uphold European legal standards, which in turn will influence local governance. The imposition or withdrawal of such sanctions and statutes could prompt cities to strategize international partnerships and safeguard municipal resources from geopolitical pressures.

Questions That Matter

What new EU sanctions does France propose?

France, through Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, proposes a 22nd package of EU sanctions against Russia. This includes 1,600 new listings targeting Russian individuals and entities linked to the military-industrial complex.

What is the EU's Blocking Statute?

The EU's Blocking Statute is a mechanism designed to protect European companies and institutions from certain foreign sanctions. Jean-Noel Barrot indicated it could be activated if dialogue fails over US sanctions against the ICC.