EU nears deal to break impasse over French request to delist Usmanov
The European Union is close to reaching an agreement to resolve a dispute over France's request to remove Alisher Usmanov from the EU sanctions list. Usmanov was previously removed from the list at France's request, but some member states, like Lithuania, have reacted by implementing independent asset freezes. The EU's decision to lift sanctions on Usmanov and another Russian billionaire, Mikhail Fridman, has highlighted a split within the bloc over the criteria for maintaining sanctions against Russian billionaires.
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- ✓ Alisher Usmanov was born on September 9, 1953.
- ✓ Usmanov is a Russian national and founder of USM Holdings.
- ✓ The EU renewed its Russia sanctions but removed Usmanov at France's request.
What changed
The EU has renewed its Russia sanctions but removed Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman at France's request, with France's push linked to a prisoner release with Azerbaijan.
Live updates
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EU nears deal to break impasse over French request to delist Usmanov
The European Union is close to reaching an agreement to resolve a dispute over France's request to remove Alisher Usmanov from the EU sanctions list. Usmanov was previously removed from the list at France's request, but some member states, like Lithuania, have reacted by implementing independent asset freezes. The EU's decision to lift sanctions on Usmanov and another Russian billionaire, Mikhail Fridman, has highlighted a split within the bloc over the criteria for maintaining sanctions against Russian billionaires.
Why it matters
The disagreement within the EU over sanctions on Russian billionaires has significant implications for the bloc's efforts to pressure Russia over its actions in Ukraine. The EU's sanctions regime is due for renewal, and the issue of Usmanov's listing has become a test of the bloc's unity. Lithuania's decision to implement its own asset freezes on Fridman and Usmanov reflects concerns that some member states have about the criteria for maintaining sanctions.
What is confirmed
- Alisher Usmanov was born on September 9, 1953.
- Usmanov is a Russian national and founder of USM Holdings.
- The EU renewed its Russia sanctions but removed Usmanov at France's request.
Still unconfirmed
- Lithuania's independent asset freezes on Fridman and Usmanov may influence the EU's future sanctions decisions.
What to watch next
- The EU's next sanctions renewal deadline
- Any further developments in Lithuania's independent asset freezes on Russian billionaires
- The impact of France's successful push to remove Usmanov on future EU sanctions decisions
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (3)
- sanctions-finder.com — Alisher Burkhanovich USMANOV | Sanctions Finder
- www.infosites.eu — EU renews Russia sanctions but removes Usmanov at France’s ...
- sanctions-finder.com — Alisher Burhanovich USMANOV - Sanctions Finder
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Luxembourg defends push to delist Mikhail Fridman
Luxembourg's prime minister defended his government's September effort to remove Russian oligarch Mikhail Fridman from European Union sanctions during a parliamentary session. This follows a broader EU decision to lift sanctions on Fridman and Alisher Usmanov, though member states like Lithuania have reacted by implementing independent asset freezes. The disagreement highlights a split within the bloc over the criteria for maintaining sanctions against Russian billionaires.
Why it matters
EU sanctions serve as a primary tool for pressuring Russia, but delisting individuals requires consensus or legal justification. Divergent national policies create a fragmented regulatory environment for sanctioned assets.
Still unconfirmed
- Luxembourg's prime minister defended the September push to delist Mikhail Fridman in parliament.
What to watch next
- Formal EU confirmation of the final delisting status for Alisher Usmanov
- Updates on the duration of Lithuania's independent asset freezes
confidence 60%Sources used for this update (4)
- www.euronews.com — Maria Tadeo - Euronews
- www.jbanc.org — EU Sanctions on Russia: A Controversial Compromise
- www.europesays.com — Luxembourg's excuse for de-listing Russian oligarch Mikhail ...
- kyivindependent.com — Sanctions - The Kyiv Independent
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Lithuania freezes assets of Usmanov and Fridman through 2027
Lithuania has independently frozen the assets of Russian billionaires Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman until 2027. This national action follows a European Union decision to remove both men from its sanctions list. The move marks a divergence from EU policy, as Lithuania maintains its own restrictions despite the broader bloc lifting sanctions. The asset freeze ensures that the billionaires' holdings remain inaccessible within Lithuanian jurisdiction regardless of the EU's updated status.
Why it matters
Member states may apply national sanctions even after EU-wide measures expire or are lifted. This creates a fragmented legal environment for sanctioned individuals. Critics argue that lifting EU sanctions sends the wrong signal to the Kremlin.
What is confirmed
- Lithuania froze the assets of Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman.
- The EU removed Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman from its sanctions list.
- Lithuania's asset freeze is set to last through 2027.
What to watch next
- Legal challenges from Usmanov or Fridman against the Lithuanian freeze
- Further EU member states adopting independent national sanctions against the two billionaires
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (3)
- sanctionslists.org — Lithuania Freezes Assets of Usmanov and Fridman After EU ...
- www.billionaires.africa — Russian billionaires Usmanov, Fridman face Lithuania freeze
- businesselitesafrica.com — Lithuania Freezes Usmanov, Fridman Assets After EU Lift
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Lithuania Freezes Assets After EU Delists Fridman and Usmanov
Lithuania has frozen the assets of Russian billionaires Mikhail Fridman and Alisher Usmanov under its national sanctions regime. This action follows the European Union removing both men from its sanctions list. The EU decision to lift these sanctions drew criticism from member states and opponents of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys called the EU delisting the wrong signal. Meanwhile, Luxembourg's move to delist Mikhail Fridman has set a dangerous precedent, according to lawmaker Franz Fayot, as other Russian oligarchs may push for similar treatment.
Why it matters
The European Union previously processed approximately 1,600 new sanctions listings without including Usmanov and Fridman, maintaining a status quo established after a compromise that extended broader Russian restrictions through 2029 despite pressure from Ukraine. Luxembourg's actions regarding Fridman have faced specific scrutiny from lawmakers. Lithuania responded to the EU's removal of the individuals by utilizing its own national sanctions authority to freeze their assets.
What is confirmed
- Lithuania froze assets belonging to Russian billionaires Mikhail Fridman and Alisher Usmanov under its national sanctions regime.
- The European Union removed Mikhail Fridman and Alisher Usmanov from its sanctions list.
- Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys called the EU delisting the wrong signal.
- Lawmaker Franz Fayot stated that Luxembourg's move to delist Mikhail Fridman has set a dangerous precedent.
Still unconfirmed
- Other Russian oligarchs may push to get the same treatment as Mikhail Fridman.
What to watch next
- Whether other EU member states adopt national asset freezes mirroring Lithuania's action.
- Further developments regarding the proposed 22nd EU sanctions package.
- Reactions from additional European lawmakers concerning the delisting precedent.
confidence 95%Sources used for this update (6)
- www.mcdermottlaw.com — EU Russia Sanctions Update: Steel, Delistings & 22nd Package
- kyivindependent.com — Luxembourg's excuse for de-listing Russian oligarch Mikhail Fridman fails to convince
- hromadske.ua — Lithuania freezes assets of Russian billionaires Fridman and ...
- www.lrt.lt — Lithuania imposes national asset freezes on Russian ...
- en.h.ua — Lithuania freezes Fridman and Usmanov assets after EU ...
- www.kiprinform.com — EU faces backlash over lifting sanctions on two Russian ...
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EU Nears Deal to Break Impasse Over French Request
The European Union is nearing a deal to break an impasse over a French request regarding sanctions. This follows previous statements by EU High Representative Kaja Kallas on 5 October that the bloc was unlikely to re-sanction Russian oligarchs Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman. Kallas noted that approximately 1,600 new sanctions listings were being processed without including Usmanov and Fridman, maintaining a status quo established after a compromise that extended broader Russian restrictions through 2029 despite pressure from Ukraine.
Why it matters
The European Union operates as a political and economic union of 27 member states that share sovereignty through common institutions and founding treaties. Policy adoption requires either unanimous agreement in the Council or collective decisions made by qualified majority voting. These structural mechanisms dictate how member states resolve internal disagreements on foreign policy and restrictive measures.
What is confirmed
- The European Union is a political and economic union of 27 member states.
- EU High Representative Kaja Kallas stated on 5 October that the bloc is unlikely to re-sanction Russian oligarchs Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman.
What to watch next
- Finalization of the agreement addressing the French request.
- Official Council votes regarding sanctions listings.
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (6)
- european-union.europa.eu — Your gateway to the EU, News, Highlights | European Union
- en.wikipedia.org — European Union - Wikipedia
- en.wikipedia.org — Member state of the European Union - Wikipedia
- commission.europa.eu — European Commission, official website - European Commission
- european-union.europa.eu — EU countries - European Union
- worldpopulationreview.com — List of Countries in the European Union 2026
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EU unlikely to reinstate sanctions on Usmanov and Fridman
EU High Representative Kaja Kallas stated on 5 October that the bloc is unlikely to re-sanction Russian oligarchs Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman in the near future. This position comes despite pressure from Ukraine to restore the men to the lists. Kallas noted that while the EU is currently processing approximately 1,600 new sanctions listings, Usmanov and Fridman are not expected to be among them. This maintains the status quo following a previous compromise that extended wider Russian restrictions through 2029.
Why it matters
France previously secured the removal of Usmanov after eight days of negotiations. While the EU dropped these individuals, the United Kingdom and United States have kept their sanctions in place. Ukraine argues that these removals create a roadmap for other oligarchs to escape European measures.
What is confirmed
- EU High Representative Kaja Kallas said on 5 October that returning Usmanov and Fridman to EU sanctions is unlikely in the near future.
- The EU is working on about 1,600 new sanctions listings.
What to watch next
- Official EU decisions on the 1,600 new sanctions listings
- Further diplomatic responses from Ukraine regarding the delisting
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (2)
- www.yahoo.com — EU has no plans to reinstate sanctions against Russian ...
- en.h.ua — Kallas: EU unlikely to re-sanction Usmanov and Fridman in ...
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Ukraine to push for return of Usmanov and Fridman to EU blacklist
Ukraine plans to demand that Russian businessmen Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman be restored to European Union sanctions lists following their removal under a recent compromise. The EU dropped both oligarchs as part of an agreement that secured a three-year extension of its wider individual restrictions against Russia through 2029. Paris secured Usmanov's removal following an eight-day negotiation. While the men escaped European measures, United States and United Kingdom sanctions lists remain unchanged. Ukraine now seeks to reverse the delisting, which critics argue exposes vulnerabilities in European foreign policy and creates a potential roadmap for other oligarchs.
Why it matters
The removal of Usmanov and Fridman marks the first time major figures have successfully exited the European Union blacklist after four and a half years. Paris achieved the delisting for Usmanov after intense negotiations, which exposed internal cracks and raised questions regarding national interests and third-country pressure in Brussels. In response to the European decision, Lithuania separately barred both men from entry for five years. Brussels officials and diplomats previously voiced deep frustration, warning that individual national priorities threaten collective economic policy.
What is confirmed
- Ukraine will seek to have Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman restored to European sanctions lists.
- The European Union removed Usmanov and Fridman as part of an agreement that secured a three-year renewal of its wider individual sanctions regime against Russia.
- Paris secured Alisher Usmanov's removal from the European Union sanctions list after an eight-day negotiation.
- The United States SDN and United Kingdom sanctions lists did not move following the European delisting.
Still unconfirmed
- The cases of Usmanov and Fridman could offer other Russian oligarchs a roadmap to escape European sanctions through political leverage and legal pressure.
What to watch next
- Formal proposals or diplomatic actions by Ukraine to reinstate Usmanov and Fridman on EU sanctions lists.
- Potential policy responses from other EU member states regarding national interests overriding collective economic measures.
- Any future delisting requests from other Russian oligarchs attempting to use similar political or legal pathways.
confidence 95%Sources used for this update (4)
- eutoday.net — Ukraine to Seek Return of Usmanov and Fridman to EU Sanctions ...
- www.contexte.com — France’s Russian oligarch deal exposes cracks in EU diplomacy
- united24media.com — How Russian Oligarchs Are Finding a Way Out of EU Sanctions ...
- fesenkolaw.com — Usmanov and Fridman: EU Sanctions Delisting Leaves the SDN ...
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EU Removes Usmanov and Fridman From Sanctions
The European Union has dropped Russian billionaires Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman from its blacklist while extending remaining individual restrictions for three years to 2029. The compromise followed a push by France, allowing the two oligarchs to become the first major figures successfully removed from the red list after four and a half years. In response to the EU decision, Lithuania banned both men from entry for five years. Brussels officials and diplomats previously expressed deep frustration over the move, warning that national interests risk reshaping collective economic policy.
Why it matters
The removal of Usmanov and Fridman exposes tensions between national lobbying and collective European Union foreign policy. While the bloc successfully preserved broad pressure on thousands of Russia-linked targets for another three years, individual member states are pursuing national restrictions to counter the EU delistings. Latvia and Lithuania enacted their own national bans against the two oligarchs to maintain pressure on Moscow.
What is confirmed
- The European Union removed Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman from its sanctions lists.
- Individual sanctions on Russia were extended for three years.
- Lithuania barred Usmanov and Fridman for five years following the EU decision.
- Rokas Pukinskas stated that the Migration Department immediately added both foreigners to the persona non grata list.
What to watch next
- Whether additional EU member states will follow Lithuania and Latvia in imposing national bans on Usmanov and Fridman
- Potential reviews or extensions of Lithuania's five-year entry ban after it expires
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (5)
- ceoworld.biz — What the Usmanov and Fridman Delistings Mean for Business and Investors
- adalytica.com — EU keeps Russia sanctions, drops Usmanov and Fridman
- www.billionaires.africa — Lithuania bans two Russian billionaires the EU just set free
- en.thebell.io — Sanctions lifted from oligarchs Usmanov and Fridman - The Bell
- www.europesays.com — Lithuania imposed sanctions on Russian oligarchs Usmanov and ...
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EU Delists Russian Oligarchs in Sanctions Renewal
European Union nations agreed to remove Russian billionaires Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman from the bloc blacklist while extending remaining individual restrictions for three years. The compromise preserves measures on thousands of Russia-linked targets, but the decision to drop Usmanov follows a push by France. Brussels officials and diplomats expressed deep frustration, warning that the concession creates a dangerous precedent. Latvia initially objected that the move diluted pressure on Moscow, though it ultimately abstained to preserve the wider sanctions regime and enacted its own national measures against the two oligarchs.
Why it matters
The European Union faced a potential expiration of approximately 3,000 existing sanctions due to the prior deadlock over the French delisting proposal. Preserving the broader restriction framework required finding a compromise among member states. Ukraine previously voiced opposition to the concessions.
What is confirmed
- EU countries agreed on September 22 to remove USM Holdings founder Alisher Usmanov and Alfa Group co-founder Mikhail Fridman from the sanctions list.
- The compromise extends restrictions on nearly 3,000 Russia-linked individuals and entities.
- Latvia abstained from the vote to save the broader sanctions regime and imposed national sanctions on Usmanov and Fridman.
- Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev pardoned imprisoned French national Martin Ryan the day after the EU dropped sanctions.
Still unconfirmed
- Azerbaijan lobbied for the EU sanctions deal in exchange for releasing the imprisoned French national.
What to watch next
- Implementation of additional national sanctions by individual EU member states against the delisted oligarchs
- Reactions from Ukraine regarding the final terms of the three-year sanctions renewal
confidence 95%Sources used for this update (12)
- www.euronews.com — EU sanctions against Russia - Euronews
- www.france24.com — EU resumes talks on lifting sanctions on two Russian oligarchs as deadline looms
- www.euronews.com — Azerbaijan
- oc-media.org — French national released from Azerbaijani jail after EU drops ...
- daryo.uz — EU delists Alisher Usmanov, Mikhail Fridman as it extends ...
- www.eurointegration.com.ua — ''No one is happy about this'': Euronews reveals EU mood ...
- www.globalbankingandfinance.com — EU Continues Deliberations on Russia Sanctions Renewal in Brussels
- meduza.io — The EU lifted sanctions on Russian billionaires Alisher ...
- www.euronews.com — Uzbekistan
- www.pravda.com.ua — Euronews: EU bitter over Usmanov sanctions removal ...
- exportprac.com — EU Renews Russia Sanctions for Three Years, Delists Usmanov ...
- newsukraine.rbc.ua — Russia's billionaire Usmanov escapes EU sanctions, France ...
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EU Divided Over French Request to Delist Russian Oligarchs
European Union member states are deadlocked over a French proposal to remove Russian billionaires Alisher Usmanov and Petr Fridman from the EU sanctions list. While some diplomats suggest a deal to lift these sanctions is nearing, Latvia has blocked the move. The Latvian Prime Minister explicitly opposes the delisting, creating a stalemate that threatens the renewal of the broader EU Russia blacklist. This impasse puts approximately 3,000 existing sanctions at risk if a consensus cannot be reached.
Why it matters
EU sanctions require unanimous agreement among all member states to be implemented or altered. France and Slovakia have pushed for the removal of specific individuals, which critics argue undermines the bloc's unified front against Moscow. Ukraine has warned that weakening these measures benefits Russia.
What is confirmed
- France requested the removal of Alisher Usmanov from the EU sanctions list.
- Latvia opposes the deal to lift sanctions on Alisher Usmanov and Petr Fridman.
- EU member states are deadlocked over changes to Russia sanctions.
Still unconfirmed
- France and Slovakia threatened to scupper 3,000 EU sanctions to protect two Russian oligarchs.
- EU envoys are split over Putin sanctions.
What to watch next
- Whether Latvia maintains its veto on the delisting of Usmanov and Fridman.
- The final decision on the renewal of the EU Russia blacklist.
confidence 85%Sources used for this update (16)
- France 24 — Live: Russia says it hit Ukrainian cargo vessels, Izmail port and logistics centre
- The Kyiv Independent — France and Slovakia's threat to scupper 3,000 EU sanctions to protect two Russian oligarchs gathers steam
- Euronews.com — EU nears deal to break impasse over French request to delist Usmanov
- politico.eu — EU deadlocked over France’s bid to take Russian tycoon off sanctions list
- Kyiv Post — Putin Sanctions Hang in Balance as EU Envoys Split
- Reuters — EU to lift sanctions on Russia-linked Usmanov and Fridman, diplomats say
- politico.eu — EU countries move toward Russia sanctions deal
- rferl.org — EU Reportedly Set To Remove Sanctions On Russian Oligarchs Usmanov and Fridman
- Yahoo — EU to lift sanctions against Russian oligarchs Usmanov and Fridman
- euractiv.com — Latvia blocks deal to renew EU’s Russia blacklist
- UNITED24 Media — Weakening EU Sanctions Plays Into Russia’s Hands, Top Ukrainian Official Warns
- Euronews.com — Latvia blocks deal to remove Usmanov from EU sanctions list
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