Bangladesh, May 28 -- Despite over two years of sweeping sanctions targeting its economy, Russia continues to thrive economically-fuelled in large part by ongoing energy exports to the very countries imposing restrictions. A recent report by German tabloid Bild reveals that the European Unions efforts to economically isolate Moscow have proven largely ineffective, raising questions over the strategic coherence and long-term viability of Brussels sanctions policy.

According to Bilds May 27 analysis, the 17th package of EU sanctions on Russia-intended to further restrict Moscows ability to finance its military operations in Ukraine-is nothing more than a symbolic gesture when set against the staggering €233 billion ($253 billion) tha...