Any decision to shift focus from targeted to blanket sanctions must be agreed at the European Union level, with special attention paid to the potential consequences for Russian journalists, dissidents and families split between Russia and Europe. After implementing national-level tourism bans, some Member States are now calling for an EU-wide ban on visas for Russian tourists. Such a measure should be carefully evaluated.
PES President Sergei Stanishev said:
“We must continue tightening the screws on those responsible for this brutal war. Europe must continue exerting maximum pressure in this direction and do its best to halt the war in Ukraine. We can take nothing off the table, but we should very carefully consider whether targeting ordinary Russians, and potentially dividing families and penalising opponents of the war, will have the effect we want.
“Our unity is our strength, and it will be important for all Member States to agree on the next steps for sanctions at the EU-level.”
The PES stands with Ukraine against this brutal invasion by Russia. Europe must continue to send clear signals to Russia’s leadership that its actions are unacceptable, whilst offering help to Ukraine and its people in their time of need. All actions must be focused on achieving an end to the war and holding those responsible to account.
