Putin makes unexpected hint to EU regarding economy and trade

Vladimir Putin stated that Moscow is ready for economic cooperation with the countries of the European Union if Brussels decides to resume engagement.

According to Putin, any new economic contacts with the EU would not be a problem for Moscow, and the Russian side is openly willing to engage in dialogue in the commercial and investment spheres. At the same time, the president did not specify particular sectors or projects that such cooperation might cover, limiting himself to general statements about readiness for partnership.

Putin explicitly noted that Russia "has nothing against" possible joint projects and is ready to work with all interested parties.

This statement came as a surprise to the international community, as, following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the European Union has consistently pressured Putin through sanctions and economic isolation of Russia.

Earlier, Putin has repeatedly expressed willingness to restore commercial ties with the West; however, such statements are generally interpreted as political signals aimed at easing sanction pressure or improving Russia’s negotiating position on the international stage.

Sanctions against Russia

Since 2014, the European Union has been imposing sanctions on Russia, and following the full-scale invasion in 2022, it has significantly expanded them.

As of 2025, the EU has adopted 19 sanction packages, with work currently underway on the 20th. Each new package strengthens restrictions, adds new individuals and legal entities, and expands the lists of dual-use goods.

The European Union may adopt the 20th package of sanctions against Russia in January 2026.

It was also recently reported that the EU is considering new restrictive measures against those who facilitate the operations of Russia’s so-called shadow fleet of tankers.