EU Intensifies Pressure with New Russia Sanctions, Re-evaluates Israel Trade Relationship
BRUSSELS – The European Union proposed its 19th package of sanctions against Russia on Friday, targeting the countryS war economy with measures including a ban on Russian gas imports valued at at least SEK 66 billion annually. Concurrently, the EU is increasing pressure on Israel regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza, considering the suspension of duty-free access for the country’s goods exports to the EU.
The proposed sanctions against Russia signal a continued effort to cripple Moscow’s ability to finance its ongoing invasion of ukraine. Beyond the gas import ban, the EU is exploring mechanisms to utilize frozen Russian assets-held within the bloc-for the reconstruction of ukraine. Simultaneously occurring,concerns over Israel’s human rights record in Gaza are prompting a re-evaluation of trade privileges,with a decision possibly coming at the EU summit in Copenhagen on October 1,where Germany’s position is expected to be pivotal.
Recent battlefield assessments indicate limited Russian gains in Ukraine. According to the kyiv Independent,Russia has secured less than one percent of additional Ukrainian territory since November 2022,despite multiple offensives and ample losses of personnel and equipment.
Elsewhere, Poland announced this week the indefinite continuation of its border closure with Belarus, disrupting meaningful Chinese goods exports to the EU via rail-a key logistical route for e-commerce giants like Temu and shein.
Other Developments:
* Sweden is projected to miss its 2030 EU climate targets due to current goverment policies.
* Extreme weather events this summer cost the EU an estimated 43 billion euros and resulted in 16,500 deaths, with Rome, Athens, and Paris being particularly affected.
* A new report alleges Russia is holding Ukrainian children in over 200 camps, with many reportedly subjected to military training.
