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Euroactiv reported that the European Commission decided to drop the hardest provisions of the planned 21st sanctions package, according to diplomatic sources. The move reflects internal EU disagreements over a proposed ban on Russian military personnel and tighter controls on liquefied natural‑gas sales. While some members pushed for a tougher line, others warned that such measures could disrupt energy markets and trade relations.

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The disputes stem from contrasting economic priorities across the Union: northern states rely heavily on Russian gas for heating and industry, while coastal members see revenue in maritime trade. German and Polish officials expressed concern that a sweeping entry ban could affect cross‑border cooperation on security matters, whereas Baltic countries favor stricter restrictions to signal solidarity with Ukraine. The compromise reached keeps the overall sanctions framework intact but softens the most controversial elements.

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In a separate concession, several EU countries are expected to relax the fish‑export ban for Russia, allowing Germany to continue buying pollock, Poland to retain access to cod, and Portugal to import haddock. These exceptions are framed as necessary for preserving domestic fishing fleets and preventing market surpluses in the Union. The adjustments also aim to avoid retaliatory measures that could harm European exporters.

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According to experts, the watered‑down package may reduce the sanctions’ leverage over Moscow but prevents a potentially destabilizing energy crisis in Europe. Economists note that the compromise keeps critical supply chains open, though it could diminish political pressure on the Kremlin. Analysts warn that future rounds of sanctions will need to balance punitive goals with the Union’s internal economic cohesion.

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