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Why did the EU postpone its sanctions against Russia?
The EU delayed its sanctions package due to legal, political, and economic hurdles. Member states like Hungary and Slovakia still import Russian energy, making it difficult to implement harsher measures. Additionally, the EU is cautious about secondary sanctions that could affect its relations with other countries.
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How might US pressure influence EU decisions on Russia?
The US has been pushing for tougher sanctions, including tariffs on China and India for buying Russian energy. This pressure aims to cut off revenue streams for Russia but complicates EU decision-making because of differing legal frameworks and economic interests among member states.
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What are the implications of delaying sanctions for Ukraine and Russia?
A delay in sanctions could slow down efforts to weaken Russia’s war economy, potentially prolonging the conflict in Ukraine. It also signals cautious diplomacy, which might impact Ukraine’s hopes for stronger Western support and could embolden Russia’s position.
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Could this delay affect global energy markets?
Yes, postponing sanctions on Russian energy exports can influence global energy prices and supply chains. Countries dependent on Russian energy might continue to face uncertainty, and markets could see increased volatility as geopolitical tensions persist.
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What are the legal and political challenges the EU faces in imposing sanctions?
The EU must navigate complex legal frameworks and political consensus among member states. Some countries are still heavily reliant on Russian energy, and there are concerns about economic repercussions, making it difficult to agree on stricter sanctions quickly.