EU removes two Russian billionaires from sanctions list

AI Summary

The European Union removed Russian billionaires Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman from its sanctions blacklist following lobbying efforts by France. The decision was made behind closed doors, signaling shifts in EU sanction policies towards Russia.

Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman were cut from the blacklist after capitals gave in to a lobbying bid by France behind closed doors.