Sanctions remain a central instrument of European policy towards Russia. This study by Boris Kaliský and Pavel Havlíček reviews European and Czech sanctions policy over the past twelve months and recommends ways to reduce Russian revenues and restrict supplies to its war industry.
Key findings
- Effective sanctions require consistent implementation, clearer responsibilities and sufficient analytical and investigative capacity.
- Reducing Russian energy revenues requires stronger action against the shadow fleet and a transition away from Russian fossil fuels, alongside efforts to end dependence on Russian nuclear fuel and related technologies.
- Export controls should target the needs of Russia’s military industry and the supply chains, financial networks and shipping routes operating through third countries, particularly China.
- The EU and its partners should close gaps between their sanctions regimes and share evidence usable in investigations and sanctions listings.
- Immobilised Russian sovereign assets could provide further funding for Ukraine, but using principal requires shared management of legal and financial risks.
- Czechia should improve beneficial ownership data and close legislative gaps.
