Signal EU renews Russia sanctions but removes Usmanov at France's request

Summary

EU envoys agreed to extend sanctions on roughly 3000 Russian individuals and entities for another 36 months, through 2029. At the same time, metals tycoon Alisher Usmanov was removed from the list at France's request, citing national security grounds. Another businessman, Mikhail Fridman, was also delisted after Slovakia vetoed his continued listing. Latvia held out in opposition until the final stage before abstaining, allowing the deal to pass. Ukraine criticized the delisting of the two men as shameful. In response, Ukraine urged individual member states to impose their own national sanctions instead.