EU Sanctions Tied to Full Russian Withdrawal from Ukraine

The European Commission has stated that EU sanctions on Russia will only be lifted if all Russian forces withdraw from Ukraine. While the EU renewed sanctions for six months, unanimity among member states is required for changes. The US has negotiated separate deals with Ukraine and Russia regarding maritime security.

The European Commission announced that any alteration or lifting of EU sanctions on Russia hinges on the complete withdrawal of Russian military from Ukraine. This statement came after the European Union extended its sanctions framework for another six months. Changes to these measures would necessitate unanimous agreement among the 27 EU member states.

"The cessation of Russia's unprovoked and unjustified aggression in Ukraine, alongside the unconditional withdrawal of all Russian military forces, is crucial to negotiating sanctions," a spokesperson emphasized.

In a related development, the United States secured separate agreements with Ukraine and Russia to halt attacks at sea and energy targets. Washington has promised to advocate for easing some sanctions against Moscow. Russia has claimed that the US consented to assist in lifting restrictions covering multiple sectors, including food, fertilizer, and shipping, as prerequisites for a Black Sea security agreement.

(With inputs from agencies.)