ABSTRACT
The current sanctions against Russia are autonomous sanctions. The EU, the United States, and many other States are taking part in this international effort against the annexation of Crimea, and the destabilization of Eastern Ukraine by Russia that followed. These sanctions typically consist of targeted sanctions on individuals and private entities, trade embargoes and restrictions, and financial restrictions. Russia denies the legitimacy and legality of these sanctions. From the perspective of those who have imposed the sanctions, these sanctions are justified, since they are reactions to a grave breach by Russia of the prohibition of the use of force, a peremptory norm whose content is an erga omnes obligation. The effectiveness of concrete measures has been reduced by implementation issues, and Russia has not changed its attitude regarding Crimea and Eastern Ukraine so far. As ineffective as they may be, the sanctions continue to play an important role as a tool of non-recognition policy.
