Brussels is considering a new approach to sanctions against Russia, after Greece stalled a comprehensive package of European measures to protect a shipping magnate, writes Financial Times.
Therefore, European officials are seeking ways to expedite the approval of more targeted financial restrictions, so that member states have fewer opportunities to exercise their veto right during negotiations.
All of this in a context where Brussels has struggled for almost a month and a half to reach an agreement with Athens. The latter has opposed the halt of Russian LNG transports, given that Greece is the largest transporter of liquefied natural gas in Europe, especially through the fleet of the Dynagas company, owned by the Greek billionaire George Prokopiou.
“This could be the last package of sanctions”
Three European officials have revealed to FT that work is currently underway to find solutions to counter this tactic, which has become increasingly widespread in recent EU sanctions negotiations, as national capitals try to protect companies that still do business with Russia.
An idea gaining ground within the European Commission and among the most pro-Ukrainian member states is that of agreeing and implementing sanctions individually or in small thematic batches, instead of targeting large packages for public relations purposes.
Officials have stated that this would reduce the risk of measures being blocked due to a veto from a member state.
“This could be the last package of sanctions,” declared one of the sources, referring to the measures finally agreed upon on Thursday, after weeks of obstruction from Greece. “It is now very clear that this approach no longer works,” the source added.
Several EU diplomats involved in negotiations with Greece have described the tactic as “outrageous”. “I don’t want to hear anyone talking about ‘solidarity’ anymore,” one of them stated.
Details, HERE