The Daily How Europe Came Around on Sanctions
Mar 2, 2022
Matina Stevis-Gridneff, the Brussels bureau chief for The New York Times, shares her insights on the EU's unprecedented sanctions against Russia amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. She discusses the historic shift in EU policy and the unity among member states in their response. The podcast delves into the collapse of the ruble and the ripple effects of sanctions on both the Russian economy and European public sentiment. Stevis-Gridneff also highlights a pivotal conversation with President Zelensky that shaped the EU's approach to support Ukraine.
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EU Foreign Policy Challenges
- The EU's historic inability to agree on foreign policy stems from its 27 sovereign nations with unique interests.
- Unanimity is required for all foreign policy decisions, making ambitious packages like the recent sanctions against Russia unusual.
The Architect of Sanctions
- Bjorn Seibert, a German bureaucrat, played a pivotal role in crafting the EU sanctions against Russia.
- His meticulous preparation and strategic approach, including keeping plans secret and utilizing smaller group dynamics, ensured their readiness.
Biden's Role in Uniting Europe
- President Biden's role was crucial in securing European support for sanctions, leveraging US intelligence about Putin's plans.
- He emphasized the greater impact of European sanctions due to their close proximity and economic ties with Russia.