A debate is brewing in Brussels regarding a new, 21st package of sanctions against Russia. At the center of attention is a proposal to ban former Russian military personnel from entering European Union countries. However, contrary to expectations, the initiative has met with serious resistance from two key EU players — Italy and France.

Diplomatic Dispute: Sanctions or Visa Regime?

Rome and Paris do not object to the idea of restricting the movement of participants in the conflict in Ukraine. However, their position is based on a fundamental distinction between mechanisms. European diplomats insist that such restrictions should be regulated exclusively through visa policy, not through sanctions instruments. In their view, mixing these concepts creates legal and logistical collisions.

Practical Impossibility of Implementation

The main argument of opponents of a strict ban is the impossibility of its technical implementation. The proposal implies that each EU member state must independently identify and verify the identities of those who participated in hostilities. Diplomats note that implementing such control in practice is extremely difficult, and in some cases — impossible without access to closed military databases.

New Vector of Pressure on Moscow

Despite the disputes over entry restrictions, Brussels continues to tighten economic pressure. EU leaders have already approved an unprecedented decision: extend current sanctions against Russia for a full year, moving away from the traditional practice of extending them every six months. This is a signal of a long-term isolation strategy.

What Else is Included in the 21st Package?

The new sanctions package goes beyond migration and security issues. The European Commission has presented details of restrictions affecting key sectors of the Russian economy:

  • Financial sector and crypto asset operations;
  • Trade operations;
  • Fishing industry — under attack for the first time.

Discussion of the initiative to ban entry for former military personnel is scheduled for Friday. It is expected that the final decision will be balanced, taking into account both political will and the practical limitations of member states.