The European Union removed Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman from its sanctions list on September 21. This decision is part of a diplomatic agreement that extends sanctions on approximately 3,000 other individuals and entities for 36 months, until autumn 2029. Previously, the EU typically renewed these restrictions every six or twelve months.
France initiated the removal of Usmanov, citing his involvement in negotiations for the release of French citizens held in Azerbaijan. Slovakia also supported this decision. Meanwhile, Luxembourg pushed for Fridman’s delisting to resolve a $16 billion arbitration claim filed by the billionaire against the country, which represents a significant portion of Luxembourg's $80 billion GDP.
Both businessmen had challenged their inclusion in the sanctions list in EU courts since early 2022. Fridman secured a partial legal victory in 2024, which weakened the EU's legal position. The move faced opposition from Latvia and criticism from Ukrainian officials, including President Zelenskyy, who called for continued pressure on Russia.
