European Union governments have been given another seven days to reach an agreement on renewing sanctions against Russia after EU envoys failed to secure consensus on extending the measures for another six months.

The existing sanctions were due to expire on September 15, but EU envoys agreed to extend them until September 22 while discussions continue among the 27 member states.

The disagreement is linked partly to the possible removal of Russian Uzbek billionaire Alisher Usmanov from the EU sanctions list. France, along with Slovakia, has supported removing Usmanov from the list, citing national security concerns.

The sanctions currently apply to almost 3,000 individuals and entities. They include measures such as asset freezes and travel restrictions and have been used by the European Union as part of its response to Russia’s war against Ukraine.

Renewing the sanctions requires agreement from all 27 EU member states. This requirement has frequently led to lengthy discussions and last minute negotiations, particularly because some countries have maintained closer relations with Moscow.

Usmanov, who has interests in metals, mining, media and telecommunications, has challenged the sanctions through European courts. His case has become part of the wider debate within the EU over the continuation and composition of its sanctions policy.

The latest extension gives member states additional time to resolve their differences before the new September 22 deadline. The EU has already taken steps to reduce the possibility of similar delays in other areas by extending some sectoral sanctions against Russia for a longer period.

The discussions come as the European Union continues to maintain economic and political pressure on Russia while supporting Ukraine. The renewal of individual sanctions remains dependent on agreement among all member states.