The European Union has initiated work on the 17th package of sanctions targeting Russia, as reported by the EU Observer portal. The process of drafting the new restrictions has commenced, although it is still in its early stages.
According to European diplomatic sources, the EU’s foreign service and the European Commission are actively involved in this effort, with proposals expected to be presented by early summer.
EU Observer also highlighted potential challenges in securing approval for the new sanctions package, particularly due to the possibility of a veto from Hungary. Budapest’s stance may also impede the extension of the EU’s current economic sanctions against Russia.
The extension of the existing sanctions was granted for an additional six months at the end of January, indicating a complex political landscape within the EU regarding measures against Russia.