EU Unity Shaken? Germany, France & Greece Block 21st Russian Sanctions Push | WATCH

[00:00:07][music] [music] [music] >> Brussels' drive for tougher sanctions on Russia is facing growing resistance from within the European Union.

[00:00:35]The proposed 21st sanctions package has exposed widening divisions as several member states refuse to back measures they say could hurt their own economies.

[00:00:47]The standoff has delayed approval of the new package.

[00:00:52]According to the Financial Times, Germany, France, Italy, Greece, Austria, and Portugal have sought exemptions or blocked parts of the package.

[00:01:03]Greece opposes restrictions on Russian LNG shipping, while Germany and Portugal want Russian fish imports protected to safeguard domestic industries.

[00:01:17]The Financial Times says EU ambassadors failed to agree on the 21st sanctions package after days of negotiations.

[00:01:27]Diplomats warned that governments are increasingly prioritizing national business interests over Brussels' sanctions agenda, making unanimous approval harder to secure.

[00:01:39]Officials involved in the talks say Europe is nearing the limits of its sanctions strategy.

[00:01:46]After 20 rounds of restrictions since 2022, several governments are reluctant to support measures that could hit key industries.

[00:01:56]The latest disagreements reflect growing economic pressure within the block.

[00:02:03]The dispute over the 21st sanctions package highlights deepening divisions inside the European Union over its Russia policy.

[00:02:12]As negotiations continue, Brussels faces the challenge of preserving unity while member states increasingly seek to shield their own economic interests from the impact of sanctions.

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