EU Russia sanctions on Putin, 3,000 others set to lapse after deadlock

EU ambassadors failed on 22 September 2026 to renew sanctions — asset freezes and travel bans — on nearly 3,000 Russian individuals and entities, including Vladimir Putin. The impasse centres on removing billionaires Usmanov and Fridman, opposed by Latvia. Without consensus, listings lapse 22 September. Renewal requires unanimity, so one objection blocks the package.