Russia's response to Western sanctions

In late July 2026 President Vladimir Putin addressed the State Duma twice, reinforcing Moscow’s stance on Western economic pressure linked to the war in Ukraine. On 27 July, he highlighted Russia’s perceived economic strength—ranking fourth globally and first in Europe—and vowed that the country would “take every necessary step” to secure victory in Ukraine, dismissing sanctions as ineffective and harmful to Europe.

A day later, after the European Union adopted its 21st sanctions package targeting additional Russian banks, energy firms and cryptocurrency platforms, Putin reiterated his criticism, calling the sanctions a "record" in both scope and uselessness. He emphasized that the measures have hurt the sanctioning nations more than Russia and affirmed continued support for key domestic sectors, employment, social programmes and defence spending.

Together, the statements illustrate a consistent narrative: despite expanding Western sanctions, the Russian leadership claims resilience and promises to pursue its war objectives unabated.