Suspension of EU sanctions, unfreezing of Russian assets possible in July – Bloc seeks exit strategy

She shared the information on Espreso TV.

"Europe must join the talks when sanctions against Russia are discussed — whether they are lifted or not. By the way, there are rumors in Europe that Russia proposed to the U.S. to use part of the frozen funds to purchase American civilian aircraft. However, the very good news is that the EU understands the importance of sanctions and that they are a tool of leverage over Russia," said Vysotska.

The journalist added that the European Union is developing several options to avoid a halt to sanctions against Russia. They are considering ways to keep the frozen Russian assets in Europe blocked.

"Viktor Orbán is already threatening that he does not want to impose any additional sanctions against Russia. However, the main problem is that all 27 EU member states must approve the new package and extend the existing 16 sanctions packages against Russia. This vote is scheduled to take place in July, meaning Hungary’s vote is necessary. The EU is already working on several 'Plan B' options in case Orbán votes against extending the sanctions. One actively discussed option is that each EU country, except Hungary, could adopt these sanctions individually. It’s quite possible that in July, if Hungary remains defiant and no leverage is found to pressure Orbán, the EU-wide sanctions against Russia will be halted — but simultaneously, all 26 remaining EU countries will implement the sanctions under their national laws. There’s also the issue that most of the frozen Russian assets are tied to these 16 sanctions packages. If they lapse, more than €210 billion could be unfrozen. However, work is also actively underway to prevent this outcome, as neither the EU nor the U.S. is interested in it," she concluded.

• On April 17, U.S. President Donald Trump said that Washington would receive a response from Moscow this week regarding proposals for a ceasefire in Ukraine.
• On April 17, Chief of Staff to the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov arrived in Paris. They already talked ceasefire and security guarantees with their UK, German, and French counterparts. Also, the U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Representative Steve Witkoff arrived.
• On Friday, April 18, reports emerged that the U.S. may ease sanctions against Russia. This could happen as part of the peace negotiations.