DISINFO: New wave of migration due to energy crisis caused by Western sanctions
SUMMARY
A new wave of migration in the world is being encouraged by the energy crisis in Europe caused by Western sanctions. The consequences of restrictive measures on the economy are also forcing people to change their place of residence. Unlawful unilateral Western sanctions have led to a significant decline in living standards in a number of countries.
RESPONSE
Recurring disinformation about Western sanctions on Russia, connected with unproven speculation about a migration crisis.
The EU and other countries around the world adopted several sanction packages against Russia due to its illegal aggression and occupation of Ukrainian territories. Not all trade restrictions are yet enforced as the energy sector needs longer transition periods, so it is too early to assess the full effect of the sanctions. However, it is incorrect to state that the Russian economy would be barely affected or would even benefit from the sanctions. Otherwise, the Russian leadership would not feel the need to constantly demand the sanctions be removed.
It is also Russia's unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine that is hurting the global economy, and not sanctions against Russia. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has destabilised global food markets and is driving food prices up due to increased cost of production, transport and freight insurance. Russia has also destroyed substantial food stocks, production, as well as processing and transport capacities in Ukraine. It also affects the economy of the EU but there are no signs of “destruction”.
A recent study from Yale University takes a detailed look into the effects sanctions are having on the Russian economy, concluding that "business retreats and sanctions are catastrophically crippling the Russian economy."
See also the assessment of EU HRVP Josep Borrell demonstrating that the sanction policy is working and strongly impacts the Russian economy.
See similar cases about Western sanctions on Russia: If the West wants to assist Russia and China, they should add more sanctions; EU sanctions are hurting Europe more than Russia; Anti-Russian sanctions are illegal pressure.