EU sanctions renewal stalls as Slovakia blocks delistings ahead of expiry
EU ambassadors failed to clinch a unanimous deal to extend Russia-related sanctions before they expire, as Slovakia pushes to remove Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman from the list. France reportedly favors delisting Usmanov, but most capitals oppose any delisting while Russia continues missile strikes in Ukraine. The talks also hinge on whether to renew the regime for six or twelve months, with Slovakia resistant to a year-long extension.