Will Sanctions Against Russia Work?

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – People are gathering around the world, protesting Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. More than 1,700 people have been detained in anti-war protests around Russia. Here at home, Charlotte’s Ukrainian community gathered in Uptown, at Romare Bearden Park and then marched to the Government Center this evening.

More then a hundred people showed up to show their support for family and friends who are still in Ukraine. Protestors tell us they’re devastated and feel helpless. A Charlotte resident and Ukraine native who only told us her name is Vicilila says, “What else can I do? Only pray and ask (the) American government (to) help my country.” Charlotte resident and Ukraine native Olena Samber says, “My home city is burned now. Russia took over there. Everyone feels terrible and it’s scary.”

Protests are also happening in New York and D.C. On Thursday, President Biden imposed additional sanctions on Russia, including blocking technology exports and sanctioning banks. Biden also insisted his threat to directly sanction Putin is “on the table” and “not a bluff.” We asked a local expert if sanctions will work. UNC Charlotte History Professor Steven Sabol says, “It’s not really going to effect one of the richest men in the world. He’s got plenty of reserves. He’ll be able to eat.” And, “I would image that the sanctions, even though they try to specifically target him, and they try to make it so that it is painful for these people, I’d be surprised if they didn’t include that within their calculus.”

Our question of the night: will sanctions on Russia work?

This episode’s panel features:
WCCB TV’s Morgan Fogarty
WCCB TV’s Zach Aldridge
WCCB News Edge contributor and host of Live with The QCB on 94.7 FM, Tremaine “QCB” Sloan