'..The start of Russian aggression against Ukraine back in 2014 generated multiple rounds of escalating European and American economic pressure. These measures, despite Moscow's denials, are having a real effect. A recent study by Bloomberg Economics found that sanctions have had a substantial and "prolonged" effect on Russia's economy, which is now a full ten percent smaller than it was projected to be back in 2013. Additional economic penalties have the power to exacerbate this trend further – particularly if they target major Russian banks or key projects like the Nord Stream II pipeline (which Russia has come to view as its energy lifeline to Europe).
American and European policymakers also possess the power to dramatically expand direct pressure on Russian officials themselves.
..
Other countries, in turn, have followed the American example. So far, in addition to the United States, Canada, several European countries and the European Parliament have all passed Magnitsky-type legislation — with Russian elites and officials remaining the principal targets. Many other foreign jurisdictions are currently considering implementing similar measures. By throwing their weight behind a fast tracking of the emerging "Global Magnitsky" regime, Washington and Brussels can dramatically turn up the heat on key Kremlin decision-makers.'
- Ilan Berman (
Source, November 30, 2018)
Context'The Kremlin’s confrontational stance towards the West is not a temporary matter..' - Maria Domanska'..At present, the most realistic scenario for Russia is long-term stagnation.' - Maria Domanska'..fossil fuels lose their grip on the global energy system.'