Russia Warns EU: Sanctions Backfiring as Expansion Potential Exhausted

Russia's Foreign Ministry spokesperson made strong claims about EU sanctions backfiring. The European Union just approved its 19th sanctions package against Moscow. Meanwhile, EU leaders committed to continuing financial support for Ukraine. The situation reflects ongoing tensions between Russia and Western powers.

Key Points: Russia Says EU Sanctions Working Against Brussels Itself

  • Russia claims EU sanctions expansion potential has been largely exhausted
  • EU approves 19th sanctions package targeting Russia's shadow fleet and energy
  • European Council commits to financial support for Ukraine through 2027
  • EU leaders to discuss defense readiness amid ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict
2 min read

Sanctions imposed on us working against European Union: Russia  

Russian Foreign Ministry claims EU sanctions are backfiring on Brussels, with expansion potential exhausted as new package targets shadow fleet and energy sectors.

"The sanctions they're imposing against Russia primarily work against the European Union - Maria Zakharova"

Moscow, Oct 23

Russia on Thursday said that the European Union (EU) sanctions against Moscow are effectively working against Brussels itself, and the potential for their expansion has been exhausted.

"The sanctions they're imposing against Russia primarily work against the European Union. Brussels's ability to expand sanctions against our country has largely been exhausted," Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova was quoted as saying by the country's leading Tass news agency.

"They've already exhausted virtually every option for implementing their concept of inflicting, as they've devised, a strategic defeat on Russia, damaging the Russian economy and its defense capability," the diplomat added while commenting on the 19th sanctions package.

Earlier in the day, the EU approved the 19th package of sanctions targetting Russia's shadow fleet, as well as its banking and energy sectors.

President of the European Council, Antonio Costa at the joint doorstep with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Brussels stated on Thursday that the Council will take the political decision to ensure the financial needs of Ukraine for 2026 and 2027, including for the acquisition of military equipment.

To date, the EU and its member states have provided €177.5 billion in support for Ukraine, including €63.2 billion in military support.

"In spite of the great expectations created by President Trump's initiatives, it is clear that today, unfortunately, these initiatives do not match the goodwill of President Putin. Russia is increasing the strikes, is increasing the strikes against civilians, against civilian facilities, which means that we need to continue supporting Ukraine’s fight for a just and lasting peace," said Costa.

The EU leaders will also focus on the latest developments in the Middle East, including the outcome of the Sharm El-Sheikh Summit for Peace on October 13, the release of all hostages and the initial phases of US President Donald Trump’s peace proposal for Gaza.

"Building on previous European Council meetings, starting from the informal Egmont retreat on 3 February and the most recent informal meeting on 1 October in Copenhagen, the leaders will discuss the EU’s defence readiness and concrete decisions on capability projects and governance," read a statement issued by the Council ahead of the meeting.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
As an Indian watching this, I'm concerned about how these sanctions affect global stability. We need peace talks, not more sanctions that hurt ordinary people on both sides. The focus should be on diplomatic solutions.
A
Arjun K
€177.5 billion for Ukraine while Europe faces economic challenges? This seems excessive. The money could be better used for development in poorer nations or addressing climate change. The priorities feel misplaced.
S
Sarah B
While I understand the need to support Ukraine, I respectfully disagree with the approach. Continuous sanctions and military aid without serious peace negotiations only prolongs the suffering. There has to be a better way forward for all parties involved.
V
Vikram M
From India's perspective, we've maintained a balanced position. While we support peace, we also have our own strategic interests and relationships to consider. This conflict has taught us the importance of self-reliance in defense and energy. 🇮🇳
M
Michael C
The 19th sanctions package shows how determined the EU is, but Russia's resilience is surprising. This situation reminds me of how economic interdependence can become a double-edged sword in global politics.

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