The USA and EU Strengthen Sanctions Against Russia
The United States and the European Union announced their intention to strengthen sanctions against Russia. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent reported on preparations for the announcement of new sanctions against Moscow, without disclosing specific details. At the same time, the EU has finalized its 19th package of restrictions on Russian assets.
'We plan to announce, either today after the market closes or tomorrow morning, a significant expansion of sanctions against Russia,’ Bessent stated.
Permanent representatives of EU member states confirmed the adoption of the 19th sanctions package during a meeting in Brussels. Senior EU diplomats predicted that the approval of new restrictive measures might happen during the European Council meeting on October 23.
The approval of sanctions became possible after Slovakia lifted its objections. Austria also sought to lift restrictions on part of the Russian assets, but these demands were not met.
Countries of the European Union and the USA decided to intensify economic pressure on Russia by introducing new sanctions. Specific details and justifications are not provided, but it is expected to be a significant expansion of restrictions. The European side approved its 19th sanctions package during a meeting in Brussels, marking a step toward increasing pressure on the Russian economy.