EU Officials Alarmed by Usmanov and Fridman Sanctions Lift, Fear Dangerous Precedent

European Union officials have expressed serious alarm following the lifting of sanctions against Russian oligarchs Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman, warning that the decision could establish a dangerous precedent for future sanctions negotiations. The concern among EU policymakers centers on whether removing sanctions against prominent individuals sends the wrong signal about the bloc's resolve to maintain pressure over Russia's war against Ukraine. ## Officials' Concerns Several EU officials told media that the precedent of lifting sanctions through negotiations, rather than through compliance with conditions, undermines the entire sanctions framework. They worry that other sanctioned individuals may now seek similar deals. ## Background Usmanov and Fridman were placed under EU sanctions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The decision to lift them has not been publicly detailed by EU institutions.