Fact Check: Peskov labels EU sanctions against Russia as 'illegal'
What We Know
On June 29, 2023, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that the sanctions imposed by the European Union (EU) on Russia are considered "illegal." He emphasized that the more severe the sanctions become, the more detrimental the consequences would be for the European economies themselves. Peskov remarked, "The more serious the package of sanctions, which, I repeat, we consider illegal, the more serious will be the recoil from a gun to the shoulder" (source). This statement was made in the context of ongoing discussions regarding the impact of sanctions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, which has led to a series of punitive measures from Western nations (source).
Analysis
Peskov's claim that EU sanctions are "illegal" reflects a common narrative from Russian officials, who argue that these sanctions violate international law and are unjustified. The assertion of illegality is not universally accepted and is often countered by Western governments, which argue that sanctions are a legitimate response to Russia's actions in Ukraine. The sanctions aim to pressure the Russian government to cease hostilities and seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict (source).
The reliability of the source of Peskov's statement is notable; it comes from state-controlled media, which can introduce bias in reporting. However, the statement itself was widely reported across various reputable news outlets, confirming its authenticity (source). The context of the statement is also critical, as it aligns with Russia's broader strategy of framing itself as a victim of unjust international actions, which may resonate with domestic audiences but lacks acceptance in international law circles.
Furthermore, the economic data presented by Peskov, indicating that Russia's economy grew despite sanctions, is part of a narrative aimed at demonstrating resilience against Western pressure. However, independent analyses suggest that while Russia has adapted to some sanctions, the long-term economic impacts are still significant and could lead to further challenges (source).
Conclusion
The claim that Peskov labeled EU sanctions against Russia as "illegal" is True. His statement reflects the Russian government's official stance on the sanctions imposed by the EU, which they view as illegitimate. While the assertion of illegality is part of a broader narrative used by Russian officials, it is important to recognize that this view is contested by many in the international community.
