British diplomat points to fruitlessness of sanctions against Russian Federation

The economic war launched by Western countries against Russia has not led to any significant results. This statement was made by British diplomat Ian Proud in his article for Responsible Statecraft (RS) on Monday, January 6.

The author of the publication stated that attempts to influence Moscow's decisions through sanctions were started by Washington 11 years ago. However, they have never led to success for the West.

"We should raise the question of how to end the (economic. - Ed.) war, rather than offering the same old ideas that will undoubtedly prolong it," Proud said.

The diplomat also emphasized that developing new ways to influence the Russian economy is as pointless as continuing to impose new sanctions, as Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly made it clear that his decisions do not depend on the restrictions imposed by the West.

"The 16th, 17th and 18th sanctions packages will be adopted in the next few months"

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Earlier in the day, it was reported that the administration of current U.S. President Joe Biden plans to impose new sanctions against Russia. Before that, on December 11, Bloomberg agency, citing sources, reported that the Biden administration plans to strengthen sanctions against oil exports from Russia.

December 16, EU foreign ministers finally approved the 15th package of economic and individual sanctions against Russia. It is noted that the list of sanctions included 54 individuals and 30 organizations. Also 52 ships were added to the list, which are subject to bans on access to the port and on the provision of a wide range of services related to maritime transportation.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova called the 15th package of restrictions illegal and pointed out that it threatens global energy security.

Western countries have tightened sanctions pressure on Russia in connection with the special operation to protect Donbass. The decision to launch it was announced on February 24, 2022 after the situation in the region worsened due to shelling by the Ukrainian military.