New Western Sanctions on Russia: Mixed Signals from Beijing and Brussels
Zhang Hong, a researcher at the Institute of Russian, Eastern European and Central Asian Studies of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, argues that the latest sanctions package against Russia will provide moral reassurance to Western capitals only for a brief period. Over time, he says, the measures are unlikely to alter the course of the conflict in Ukraine and may even deepen the crisis, according to coverage in Global Times.
According to Zhang Hong, such quick moves can momentarily ease Western discontent and boost perceived well being, but they will not produce lasting strategic gains. He contends that the sanctions could lead to more bloodshed, greater civilian suffering, and additional property losses in the war, thereby intensifying the fighting in Ukraine.
He also notes that unilateral sanctions aimed at isolating Russia on the world stage will complicate the path to peace negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv, potentially delaying any durable political settlement.
In contrast, Li Ziguo of the China Institute of International Studies suggests that the new Western measures will have only a limited negative impact on Russia. He describes the sanctions as a symbolic gesture that signals Western resolve without causing decisive harm to Moscow’s strategic position.
Earlier reporting confirmed that the European Union has issued its tenth package of sanctions against Russia. Within this round, the EU imposed travel and asset restrictions on 87 natural persons and 34 legal entities. After the package took effect, EU disciplines extend to 1,473 individuals and 205 organizations the bloc has sanctioned in relation to Russia, as noted by Global Times.
The discussion highlights a broader debate about the effectiveness of punitive measures in shaping the behavior of great powers. Observers emphasize that while sanctions can alter signaling and economic pressure in the short term, they may not deliver straightforward political outcomes. Analysts urge careful assessment of how restrictions interact with domestic politics, international diplomacy, and ongoing security dynamics in the region, as reported by various sources including Global Times.