Why EU's Next Sanctions Plan Could Deepen Cracks Within the Bloc

The European Union is moving toward a new strategy for imposing sanctions on Russia, a shift that could expose deeper divisions within the bloc and fuel institutional tensions over the decision-making process. The 21st sanctions package against Russia may become the last to follow the traditional format. According to Financial Times, citing sources familiar with the discussions, EU officials are considering adopting future sanctions individually or in thematic groups rather than as large, comprehensive packages. The proposal comes after repeated delays caused by the use of veto powers by individual member states. Large Sanctions Packages Difficult to Approve Negotiations over the 21st sanctions package stretched on for several weeks because of Greece's firm position. Athens withheld its approval until its shipping company Dynagas received a temporary exemption allowing it to continue transporting Russian liquefied natural gas to third countries.