ILI Head Tetiana Khutor outlined the possible consequences of weakening sanctions policy against Russia during a broadcast on the Suspilne TV channel
The decision by the United States to issue a temporary license allowing India to purchase Russian oil that had already been shipped before March 5 could have negative consequences for the sanctions policy against Russia. This was stated by the Head of the Institute of Legislative Ideas, Tetiana Khutor, during a broadcast on Suspilne News.
“Such steps should provoke a negative reaction, because easing pressure on the aggressor state will not contribute to ending the war. The issued license applies only to Russian oil that was already at sea at the time the restrictions were introduced. This authorization is valid for 30 days; however, such licenses can sometimes be extended, so it is important to monitor further decisions,” the expert said.
At the same time, Tetiana Khutor noted that if the authorization remains short-term, it will not have a strategic impact on Russia’s financial capabilities.
“However, if it is extended or becomes part of a broader trend toward easing restrictions, the situation could significantly worsen,” she warned.
The Head of ILI explained that the mechanism of special licenses is typical for sanctions systems in the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union. First, general restrictions are introduced, and then, if necessary, individual permits may be issued to specific companies or countries for certain operations.
“It may seem strange, but such instruments allow for quick responses and targeted solutions to issues that align with the national interests of the state imposing the sanctions. At the same time, Ukraine does not have such a mechanism: to lift or adjust sanctions, it would be necessary to amend legislation or presidential decrees,” the expert noted.
Commenting on the EU’s position, Tetiana Khutor expressed hope that Brussels would not support similar relaxations. According to her, for the EU this would represent a serious step backward in sanctions policy, especially considering political factors in Hungary and Slovakia.
“I hope we will not see any concessions for Russian oil from the EU,” the Head of ILI concluded.
The full recording of the broadcast is available here: