EU removes Russian billionaires Usmanov and Fridman from sanctions list
The EU agreed to remove Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman from its Russia sanctions blacklist. It was part of a compromise deal.
EU countries agreed to lift frozen assets and travel bans on two Russian billionaires: Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman. France asked for Usmanov's removal on national security grounds.
Diplomats said the move was linked to a potential prisoner release deal involving French nationals held in Azerbaijan. Luxembourg pushed for Fridman to also be removed.
He had sued for 15 billion euros for his frozen assets. Both billionaires were removed from the list.
But the broader agreement continues EU sanctions on about 3,000 other people and entities for three more years. The sanctions run until September 2029.
Ukraine criticized the move, saying the EU should increase pressure on Russia. Other EU member states called it 'blackmail', warning it sets a dangerous example for removing people for political reasons.
- 3,000
- Entities remaining under sanctions
- 15 billion euros
- Fridman's lawsuit amount
- 36 months until September 2029
- Sanctions extension period
- French nationals held in Azerbaijan
- Connection to deal
Why it mattersTwo major Russian billionaires escape asset freezes amid international tensions. This shows possible cracks in unified Western pressure on Russia.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect yet, though Australia typically aligns with EU sanctions on Russia; this move suggests Western unity on Russia pressure may be weakening.
Corroborated bytheguardian.com
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 d ago
