Removing Usmanov from sanctions list risks making EU look weak - Lithuanian finance minister

Lithuania's finance minister, Taurimas Valys, has expressed significant skepticism regarding the removal of Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov from the sanctions list. The request for delisting was made by France as part of a package that could see two French nationals released from prison in Azerbaijan. Lithuania, along with Slovakia, joined in calling for Usmanov's removal, citing national security concerns.

However, French officials have not provided further details on their position. Valys argued that the timing for loosening sanctions is not appropriate, emphasizing that the war against Russia is ongoing and that any move to minimize sanctions before a peace deal is signed could be perceived as a sign of weakness by Moscow. Valys also warned that removing Usmanov could make Europe appear divided in its support for Ukraine.

The oligarch was sanctioned due to his close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin and his involvement in key sectors of the Russian economy. Lithuania supports imposing more sanctions on Russia, but the Irish presidency, which holds the EU Council presidency, proposed a compromise. This would involve delisting Usmanov and another Russian businessman, Mikhail Fridman, in exchange for a 36-month extension of the sanctions regime.

However, this proposal is still under consideration by EU diplomats in Brussels. The urgency to resolve the deadlock over sanctions is growing, as the current extension of sanctions is set to expire soon. Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials, including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, have strongly opposed the push to delist Usmanov, viewing it as an unacceptable concession.