Austria to back EU's 19th sanctions package against Russia - Reuters
Illustrative photo: Austria blocked new sanctions against Russia (Getty Images)
Austria announced it will back the European Union's new sanctions package against Russia, removing a key hurdle ahead of a vote early next week, Reuters reports.
The move clears the way for EU Foreign Ministers, who are set to meet in Luxembourg on October 20 to finalize the 19th sanctions package against Moscow.
The approval process had stalled over Austria's demand to unfreeze part of Russia's assets to cover losses at Raiffeisen Bank International, which faced fines imposed by the Russian regime.
Other EU countries opposed the request, and the package requires unanimous approval from all 27 member states. Austria's support now paves the way for consensus.
"Austria supports continued pressure on Russia and will approve the 19th package of sanctions on Monday," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.
New sanctions against Russia
On September 19, the European Commission proposed the 19th package of anti-Russian sanctions for EU discussion. The measures include a full phase-out of Russian gas imports to EU countries by January 1, 2027.
The new 19th package is expected to impose tougher restrictions on Russia. Three sectors key to the Kremlin will be targeted: energy, financial services, and trade.
EU officials also expect pro-Russian leaders in Hungary and Slovakia to attempt to block the measures. To prevent this, the European Commission proposed a new voting scheme designed to bypass any obstruction by Budapest and Bratislava.
