Updated
Updated · POLITICO Europe · Jul 15
EU Ambassadors Delay Russia Sanctions Again, Keep Oil Cap at $44.10 Until July 23
Updated
Updated · POLITICO Europe · Jul 15

EU Ambassadors Delay Russia Sanctions Again, Keep Oil Cap at $44.10 Until July 23

3 articles · Updated · POLITICO Europe · Jul 15

Summary

  • A third straight day of failed talks left EU countries without agreement on a new Russia sanctions package, pushing ambassadors to defer negotiations until July 22.
  • The deadlock forced the bloc to extend its existing cap on Russian crude at $44.10 a barrel for one more week, through July 23.
  • Two EU diplomats said Ireland, which holds the Council of the EU's rotating presidency, has scheduled the next ambassadors' meeting for July 22.
  • The delay keeps the EU's current oil restriction in place while member states try to bridge differences over the broader sanctions package.

Insights

Why extend a $44 oil price cap when Russia's crude sells for over $90?
Can Ireland’s EU presidency push sanctions while an Irish firm supplies Russia’s military?
Is the EU's unanimity rule on sanctions becoming Russia's greatest strategic asset?