EU member states will postpone the decision to prolong sanctions against Russia for as long as possible, but they will eventually accede to US demands to extend them for another six months, journalist and former European Member of Parliament Giulietto Chiesa told Radio Sputnik.
Chiesa explained that the decision of the Italian government to delay a review of the sanctions at a meeting of EU envoys in Brussels on Wednesday was in part a result of pressure from industry and business leaders.
"It is clear that the sanctions are against our interests, not only Italian interests but in general, German, French and so on … Italy has opened the door to a discussion."
"This has been taken under strong American pressure and that will continue. I am not sure that Mr. Renzi will be able to maintain his word, because he is under pressure, he is in a difficult situation from the point of view of Italy's overall political position."
The current round of sanctions is due to expire on January 31, 2016 and despite the complaints from affected Europeans, Washington is likely to get its wish for their continuation. However, Chiesa believes that public opinion in Europe about Russia has changed and in the long run will filter through to politicians.
"After the Russian behavior in Syria, many in Italy and in Europe understand that Russia can be a faithful ally. In any case, many have understood that Russia is not harming European security and this is one of the reasons why they have begun to call on the US for a change."
