I guess the “pro sanctions” argument would be that countries have very few ways to influence each other: political pressure (asking nicely), economic pressure (sanctions to make the country poor), and military pressure (bombs). And that hey at least it’s not bombs (until it is).

But just like with bombs, sanctions will always hurt a ton of people who were just trying to live their lives and did not want to be part of the conflict.

I hope your friend gets by OK.