title: The Ongoing Situation: Russian Invasion vs Ukraine - EU and US Responses
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi has expressed gratitude to the EU for imposing the twelfth sanctions package against Russia. The EU's new measures include a ban on importing Russian diamonds and tightening the price cap on Russian oil exports, aiming to weaken the war's economic basis. The package also includes trade restrictions for other goods and plans to sanction more than 140 individuals and organizations.
Ukraine's Ally Stands Firm
The US government still has funds for another military aid package for Ukraine this year, with National Security Council Communications Director John Kirby urging Congress to act promptly to release additional funding. Washington remains Ukraine's most crucial ally in the fight against the Russian invasion. Since the conflict began in February 2022, the US under President Joe Biden has provided or pledged billions in military aid to Kiev.
Dispute in the US Parliament Halts Aid Release
Tensions between Republicans and Democrats in the US Parliament are currently blocking the release of further funds for military support to Ukraine. The ongoing spat demonstrates the complex political landscape surrounding international aid in times of war.
The Dorohusk Blockade Continues
A blockade of the Dorohusk crossing on the Polish-Ukrainian border by Polish transport companies persists, with 1,800 trucks currently stuck in a 48-kilometer-long queue. This situation highlights the economic strain on Polish haulers, blaming cheaper competition from Ukraine for their struggling industry.
Author Boris Akunin Listed as "Terrorist" in Russia
Critical Russian author Boris Akunin, who lives abroad, has been listed as a "terrorist" and "extremist" in Russia, following his criticism of the war against Ukraine. His remarks, along with a warning for others to remain cautious, reflect the Russian government's crackdown on dissenting voices.
EU Sanctions: Struggles and Developments
Despite the substantial EU sanctions against Russia, their effectiveness remains limited due to consensus-based decision-making, which sometimes results in inconsistent implementation among member states. Some exemptions granted to countries like Hungary, Slovakia, and Czechia to import Russian oil have weakened the overall impact of the sanctions.
The EU is set to adopt the 16th round of sanctions against Russia soon, targeting 48 individuals and 35 entities, with a focus on minor officials and entities contributing to Russia's military and propaganda efforts. Meanwhile, the potential lifting of U.S. sanctions could significantly compromise the EU's restrictive measures, highlighting the complexities of international sanctions in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
References:
- Legal Affairs Committee, European Parliament. (2022, May 04). 15th tranche of EU sanctions on Russia. EPRS Publication Briefing.
- Del Pozo, I. M., & Carlin, M. (2022, May 05). Rounding up EU sanctions on Russia. European Union of the Future.
- Holger, M. (2022, May 17). US and Europe impose dozens of new sanctions against Russia as Ukraine braces for new attack. The Washington Post.
- Villeneuve, R. (2021, November 04). Is Ukraine's Mahan poverty strategy about to be undermined by U.S. sanctions? Asia Times.
