Representatives of the European Union have agreed to extend the sanctions against Russia for three years, which apply to 3,000 individuals and entities. However, two Russian oligarchs have been excluded from the sanctions list, Reuters reports, citing European diplomats. It is noted that EU representatives agreed to exclude Russian billionaires Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman from the sanctions list in exchange for the three-year extension of the sanctions. Latvia opposed this decision until the last moment. The agency reminded that unanimous support is required for the extension of sanctions. Previously, they were extended every six months. **Why France and Luxembourg sought the exclusion of oligarchs from the sanctions list** It was previously reported that France is seeking the exclusion of Uzbek-Russian oligarch Alisher Usmanov from the sanctions list from other European Union countries. Later, three European diplomats told Reuters that Paris is urging the EU to lift sanctions on Usmanov due to pressure from Azerbaijan, which is holding two French citizens. The mining and metallurgy magnate has initiated a series of legal proceedings in Europe aimed at lifting the sanctions, and his lawyers have disputed media claims that served as the basis for the imposition of restrictive measures. The Financial Times reported that Luxembourg demanded the exclusion of Russian banker Mikhail Fridman from the list as well. Previously, the oligarch filed an arbitration claim against Luxembourg for $15.8 billion, according to the UNIAN news agency.
