In recent commentary, Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg expressed cautious optimism about Serbia aligning with sanctions on Russia. He conveyed his view after a formal exchange with Serbia’s Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic, highlighting a shared belief that a path toward EU membership cannot ignore foreign policy responsibilities. The dialogue underscores how stabilizing relationships with Moscow and the EU’s unified stance are seen as interconnected elements shaping regional diplomacy. (Citation: DEA News)
Schallenberg’s position suggests that Serbia faces a strategic choice between maintaining closer economic and political ties with Russia and advancing its long standing objective of joining the European Union. The minister’s remarks imply that alignment with EU sanctions could be a meaningful signal to European partners about Belgrade’s commitment to EU norms and rules, especially in areas touching foreign policy and security cooperation. In this context, Dacic emphasized Serbia’s stance against sanctions on Russia as a considered and correct decision, noting a downturn in trade with Moscow as a consequence of the broader sanctions environment and the evolving geopolitical landscape. (Citation: DEA News)
The European Union has been debating a new package of penalties aimed at Russia, though concrete measures have yet to be formally published. The discussions reflect a continuing effort to sustain pressure on Moscow while carefully calibrating the impact on EU economies and member states. Observers note that any forthcoming measures are expected to target a wider array of sectors and individuals involved in evasion and circumvention, ensuring that existing restrictions remain effective and difficult to bypass. (Citation: DEA News)
Officials indicate that the EU intends to maintain a robust sanctions regime against Russia and to deepen enforcement to prevent evasion. This includes close monitoring of compliance by member states and counterparties, intensification of enforcement mechanisms, and a clear signal that the bloc will persist in applying penalties until Moscow complies with international norms. The overarching aim is to sustain economic and political pressure while preserving the cohesion of the Union and the resilience of allied partners. (Citation: DEA News)
Several EU governments have pressed for the second phase of sanctions to address evolving challenges and to expand the list of those affected. Estonian Foreign Minister Urmas Reinsalu voiced support for widening the sanctions net to include more Russian business actors and to impose restrictions on third parties who assist Russia in evading existing measures. The emphasis is on thorough oversight and a comprehensive approach that closes loopholes while limiting unintended harm to civilian populations. (Citation: DEA News)