The Legality and Effect of Western Sanctions on Russia Under International Law

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Corresponding author, Emeke, Nelson Chegwe, Department of Public Law, University of Delta, Agbor, Delta State, Nigeria.

2 Omonemy T. Edewor, Department of Private Law, University of Delta, Agbor, Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the legal foundations, legitimacy, and effectiveness of Western sanctionsimposed on Russia in response to its actions in Ukraine. It assesses these measures underinternational law, evaluating their compliance with principles governing economic coercion,state sovereignty, and lawful enforcement. Through doctrinal analysis, the study explores thesanctions’ influence on Russia’s foreign policy and military strategy. Findings suggest thatwhile early sanctions induced considerable economic strain, Russia has adapted by diversifyingits economy and deepening trade relations with non-sanctioning states. Though often framedas lawful countermeasures under international law, the actual effectiveness of these sanctionsin constraining Russia’s military ambitions remains contested. The study identifies key legaland policy considerations affecting the impact of sanctions, including proportionality, globaleconomic interdependence, and the mitigating role of major powers such as China. Ultimately,this inquiry calls into question the long-term viability of both unilateral and multilateral sanctionsas reliable instruments of coercive diplomacy within the framework of international law.

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