The 9th EU package of sanctions against Russia will target Putin’s propaganda. That is, of course, if it can be approved.
Here’s a question that future trivia players might be asked: what were more, coalitions that Napoleon fought or sanction packages against Putin? Both have made the rest of Europe very angry, though the first was slightly more successful than the second on the field…
Future trivia players, remember: as of October 2022 Russia has received more sanction packages than Napoleon coalitions, 8 against 7. Today, on Monday, a 9th sanction package could have been approved, widening the gap even further.
Josep Borrell, Vice-President of the EU Commission, announced this afternoon that diplomats could not agree on the 9th package, but efforts will continue. So far, it is not clear what objection has been posed, nor from which country it came from.
The 9th package of sanctions aims, among other things, at the Russian propaganda machine. 144 people, mainly TV personalities and media tycoons, could have their assets and visas freezed by European countries.
This package would come on top of the price cap on oil imposed by EU and G7 countries last week.
Other than economic sanctions, the EU keeps taking diplomatic measures against Russia. They have labeled it as a sponsor of terrorism, they consider Moscow responsible for horrible war crimes and are trying to set up an international tribunal against them.
What does the 9th package of sanctions include
Other than the already discussed attack against Russian propaganda, the 9th package includes further sanctions. 200 political individuals have been added to the black list, including industrialists, members of the Russian parliament (Duma) and so on.
Three other Russian banks would be under sanctions with this 9th package. The EU would also include further exports ban for chemicals, electronics and IT components. The Russian mining industry would be targeted as well, banning investments in the sector.
Finally, the direct export of drones to Russia would be cut off. This measure also includes third party countries that would sell the drones back to Russia, like Iran.
The Middle Eastern country is now considered Russia’s main ally, after Ukraine has identified the drones that hit them in recent weeks as Iranian made.
All of this, of course, if the 9th package will be approved by the European Union. If history is a veritable witness, the EU will keep discussing it and finally approve it, like with the other sanction packages so far.
It’s not clear yet when the next discussion on the 9th package of sanctions will take place. Likely, however, it will not see the light for at least a month.
