Russia pushes US to lift flight sanctions - Politico
Illustrative photo: Russia wants the US to open the skies for Russian aircraft (Getty Images)
Russia wants the US to open its skies to Russian aircraft as part of a ceasefire agreement with Ukraine. But a major obstacle is Europe, Politico reports.
The outlet noted that if the European Union does not open its skies to Russian aviation, it will be difficult for Russian carriers to fly to the United States.
"EU sanctions stand firm against Russia, which includes a ban on Russian airlines flying over EU airspace," an unnamed representative of the European Commission emphasized in a comment to Politico.
The official also pointed to "major safety and security issues" related to the possible resumption of flights of Russian aircraft in EU airspace. In particular, it is not known whether Russia has carried out proper maintenance of its aircraft over the past three years.
Sander Starreveld, director of the SIG Aviation consultancy, said the European Union Aviation Safety Agency will have to ensure that Russian planes have the necessary level of security, a process that will take a long time.
"Some aircraft could be seized immediately upon landing in Europe due to Russia’s unilateral decision to nationalize leased aircraft. There are massive debts owed to Western leasing companies, and I expect they’ll try to recover as many assets as possible," Starreveld added.
Lavrov’s statement
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated on April 11 that a ceasefire agreement with Ukraine must result in the lifting of sanctions on Aeroflot.
"The Americans have considered this issue, but so far we see no reciprocal steps," said the Russian official.
US position on sanctions
US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce previously emphasized that the United States will not ease sanctions against Russia until a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia is achieved.
She also noted that the US will not enter into any bilateral agreements with Russia before a ceasefire.
