EU Considers Smaller Sanctions Packages After Greek LNG Veto

The European Union is considering a shift in its approach to imposing sanctions on Russia. After Greece used its veto power to protect shipping interests linked to Russian liquefied natural gas, EU officials are weighing whether to divide future sanctions packages into smaller, more focused measures.

Currently, the EU requires unanimity for sanctions, giving any member state the power to block a measure and use it as leverage. Large packages combining dozens of unrelated measures allow compromise and enable national governments to bargain over individual interests.

Greece's recent concession in the 21st sanctions package involved preserving existing arrangements for LNG trade under volume limits. Critics argue that continued European transport helps Russia sell energy, while supporters claim that restrictions would transfer business to non-European operators without reducing Russian exports.

Smaller packages might change negotiations by making it clearer when a government is objecting to a particular measure and forcing them to explain their stance directly. However, this approach may not remove the veto power of national governments and could make some sanctions harder to implement.