Russia is pushing to have United States aviation sanctions lifted as part of ongoing ceasefire negotiations over its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. A key demand includes restoring direct flights between Russia and the United States, with the Kremlin particularly focused on removing restrictions on its state airline, Aeroflot. However, European Union officials remain strongly opposed to reopening their airspace to Russian airlines, citing both legal and safety concerns.
According to a report from Politico, the European Union insists that sanctions banning Russian flights in European airspace remain firmly in place. A spokesperson from the European Commission, speaking anonymously, highlighted the risks involved. “It is unclear whether Russian air traffic services and aircraft have been properly maintained over the last three years,” the official said, adding that this raises “serious questions about airworthiness.”
Aside from concerns about safety, a major issue lies with the aircraft themselves. Following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Russia effectively confiscated hundreds of leased foreign aircraft—many of which are still being operated without the consent of the original lessors. This has led to Europe labelling some of these aircraft as “stolen,” complicating any efforts to reintroduce them into legal international service.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) would also face an enormous burden if required to certify Russian aircraft and carriers. Reopening access to EU skies would likely overwhelm existing systems and invite legal battles over safety and certification.
Despite these obstacles, Russia continues to push its demands. On 11 April, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that any ceasefire must include “the removal of restrictions on Aeroflot.” He claimed that the Americans had “considered this,” but had not yet taken concrete steps. No sanctions relief has yet come from the Trump administration, although Russia reportedly sees some signs of potential flexibility.
In parallel, Russia has also asked the United States to permit the purchase of Boeing aircraft using its frozen assets abroad. As of 16 April, this request had not been granted. The Kremlin appears to be trying to use economic and transport incentives to manipulate Western policy in its favour.
Any US move to ease restrictions may place additional pressure on European carriers. These airlines have long suffered financial disadvantages after rerouting around Russia’s massive airspace to reach destinations in Asia. While Chinese airlines have benefited by continuing to fly over Russian territory, European airlines have faced longer flight times, higher fuel costs, and reduced competitiveness.
Nevertheless, European resistance to negotiation with Moscow remains firm. Officials in Brussels continue to cite “security concerns” and a “lack of transparency” in Russian aviation standards. One particularly troubling event involved the Christmas crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines flight, allegedly caused by a Russian air defence missile. Following the incident, EASA advised all airlines to avoid flying over western Russia. Despite President Putin offering an apology, Moscow did not admit responsibility.
