Austria supports new EU sanctions against Russia

Austria to support new EU sanctions package against Russia - obstacle removed

Austria said it will accept the latest package of European Union sanctions on Russia, a turnaround that clears a key hurdle ahead of a vote early next week.

EU foreign ministers will meet in Luxembourg on Monday to agree on the 19th package of sanctions against Moscow for its invasion of Ukraine.
Earlier, the adoption of the package was halted due to Austria's demands: it insisted that the bloc unfreeze some of Russia's assets to compensate Raiffeisen Bank International, which was fined by Russia.
The Austrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported:

«Austria supports further pressure on Russia and will approve the 19th package of sanctions on Monday.». Reuters

The package includes numerous measures in the energy and financial sectors, including a ban on imports of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) from 1 January 2027, a year earlier than previously planned (1 January 2028).
Although Slovakia has also expressed reservations, four EU diplomats said the European Commission would issue a letter on Monday that should address Slovakia's concerns.

Implications for Ukraine and the EU

1. EU shows unityAustria's decision means that all 27 countries have to agree to the package, and the «last vote» has been removed.

2. Increasing pressure on Russia - especially in the energy sector. A ban on LNG from 2027 will be another step towards reducing the EU's dependence on Russian gas.

3. Benefits for Ukraine - Tougher sanctions mean more support for Kyiv, a stronger negotiating position and recognition of Russia's aggression.

4. A challenge to implementAlthough the decision has been taken, implementation mechanisms and coordination remain difficult due to the different domestic interests of the member states.

Context.

• The EU sanctions package was blocked for a long time due to Austria's demands, which underlines the power of one country in the EU procedure.

• The terms of the package include energy and financial measures that are important for Europe's strategic security.

• Ukraine expects sanctions to be strengthened as an important tool in supporting its defence against Russian aggression.