Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan, Serik Zhumangarin, recently articulated that while his country does not support the unilateral sanctions imposed against Russia, it will continue to adhere to them due to economic benefits. Zhumangarin clarified that Kazakhstan is not a part of any coalition enforcing these sanctions but finds compliance economically favorable.
"We are not participants in the coalitions and do not support this unilateral sanction policy, but we will comply with it because it is economically advantageous for us," Zhumangarin stated. He pointed out that Kazakhstan's small economy could not withstand the pressures of sanctions. "Therefore, we are constantly in dialogue, and we have centers that work directly with the United States and the European Union," he added.
In addition to maintaining its economic stability, Kazakhstan's strategic adherence to sanctions also allows the nation to sustain its geopolitical position amid escalating tensions. The deputy prime minister highlighted that through its diplomatic engagements, Kazakhstan has managed to uphold its stance without directly confronting any major powers.
The Context of Sanctions Against Russia
The discourse on sanctions began after the Russian leader, Vladimir Putin, recognized the independence of the so-called "DNR" and "LNR" on February 22, 2022, and initiated a full-scale war against Ukraine on February 24, 2022. In response, global powers, including the United States and the European Union, have escalated their sanctions against Russia aiming to curb its military capabilities and penalize its economy.
President Joe Biden of the United States expressed that the alternative to sanctions could have led to a Third World War, which would potentially result in the extinction of humanity. The European Commission, on the other hand, has been proactive in tightening sanctions with the proposal of the 14th package of sanctions aimed at restricting the trade of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and targeting several vessels from the so-called shadow fleet transporting Russian oil despite EU bans.
The previous, 13th package of EU sanctions against Russia was adopted on February 23, targeting 106 individuals and 88 legal entities involved in various capacities with the Russian state or its war efforts.
Moreover, on May 2, the United States announced a new package of sanctions directed at Russia's military-industrial complex (MIC) and its programs for developing and producing chemical and biological weapons. This package also targets entities from third-country jurisdictions that assist the aggressor state in acquiring resources for weapon production.
The prior package of U.S. sanctions against Russia was declared on February 23, right after Biden announced more than 500 new restrictions against Russia for its full-scale war against Ukraine and the death of opposition figure Alexei Navalny in a Russian penal colony.
Conclusion
Kazakhstan's pragmatic approach to sanctions highlights a complex balance between economic interests and diplomatic engagement. By complying with international sanctions while maintaining open channels of communication with major global entities, Kazakhstan navigates its path through geopolitical challenges, ensuring its economic stability and international relations remain intact.
