Russia is getting used to living under sanctions pressure: how powerful is the EU 12 package?

The European Union introduced new sanctions against Russia. The 12th sanctions package introduces restrictions, in particular, on the sale of diamonds, as well as on the supply of parts that can be used in the production of weapons.

Political scientist Oleg Lesnoy said Channel 24 that each subsequent package of anti-Russian sanctions is adopted more slowly and more complexly than the previous one. This is due to the fact that sanctions harm not only the Russian economy, but also business in European countries.

Very an important element of pressure

This explains the sometimes balanced position of some European countries, as well as the constant discussions around this issue.

It’s good that this package included a ban on the sale of diamonds. This ban should have been adopted in previous packages of sanctions, the political scientist noted.

However, the problem is that when sanctions are adopted for a long time, Russia manages to reorient the business and protect himself. She is gradually getting used to living under sanctions pressure. Iran is probably transferring to it not only weapons, but also the methodology for working under sanctions, because Tehran has existed under the pressure of restrictions for many decades.

Despite Russia’s ability to adapt to sanctions, they remain a very important element of pressure on Moscow. This pressure should consist of a complex of levers:

• sanctions;
• military assistance to Ukraine;
• work to freeze Russia's assets in the world, as well as to create a mechanism that will allow these funds to be transferred to Ukraine.

It is important that Russia pays for this war with its assets. This approach should be effective,” the political scientist noted.

Also, the latest packages of sanctions against Russia provide for a mechanism that destroys ways to circumvent sanctions.

“They cannot be completely broken, but this process must continue. Ukraine can help in this, pointing out the cracks that allow Russia to avoid restrictions. And the European Union should close these cracks,” emphasized Oleg Lesnoy.

What is known about the 12th package of sanctions against Russia

• The new package included a ban on the sale of Russian diamonds. The restrictions will come into force on January 1, 2024. And by September 1, 2024, sanctions should come into force on diamonds processed in third countries or transported in transit through the territory of the country.
• Restrictions on the supply of weapons parts were also introduced . In particular, they affected lithium batteries, thermostats, electric motors and servomotors, machine tools and auto parts.
• The ban also targets the import of Russian propane, cast iron, copper and aluminum wire and foil.
• At the same time, the European Union introduced 147 individual sanctions, 61 against individuals and 86 against legal entities. In particular, Dmitry Medvedev’s son, Ilya, was subject to personal restrictions. In addition, Russian TV channels were banned: “Tsargrad” and “Spas”, financed by the Russian Orthodox Church.