EU expands sanctions list against Russia

European Union (EU) countries have added another 34 individuals and 47 organizations to the sanctions list in connection with Russia's attacks on Ukraine, its hybrid actions and human rights violations.

The EU Council statement reports that new restrictive measures were adopted in response to Russia's attacks on Ukraine, hybrid actions and actions violating international law.

The statement notes: "New EU sanctions target Russia's energy revenues, military-industrial complex, propaganda network and human rights violations."

Under the new package, another 34 individuals and 47 organizations have been added to the sanctions list: "These measures will further restrict Russia's military-industrial complex, reduce Russia's energy revenues by targeting the shadow fleet network, and prevent the spread of Russian state propaganda that legitimizes hybrid threats and aggressive war."

Seven individuals and 21 organizations have been added to the sanctions list, "supporting Russia's military and industrial infrastructure, including companies supplying the Russian army with unmanned aerial vehicles and other military equipment for use in the war in Ukraine."

Energy revenues remain an important source of income for the Russian economy, and it is reported that "as part of the sanctions package, two individuals and 24 organizations involved in the transportation and export of crude oil and petroleum products from Russia have been added to the sanctions list."

Among the listed individuals and organizations are companies linked to Russia's "shadow fleet" network, which, it is stated, "is used to circumvent EU sanctions and poses a threat to maritime security and the environment."

In connection with Russia's hybrid activities against the EU and third countries, another 10 individuals and one organization have been added to the sanctions list, including journalists, commentators and influencers linked to Russian state media.

The statement also notes that "in connection with the poisoning and death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, a decision was made to impose new sanctions," under which 15 individuals and one organization have been added to the list, including judges, prosecutors, security service employees, medical personnel and FSB officers.

A decision was made "to extend until June 23, 2027, the existing sanctions imposed in connection with Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea and Sevastopol."

To date, the EU has imposed 20 packages of sanctions against Russia in connection with the war. Work on the 21st sanctions package is also ongoing.

Under these measures, restrictions against Russia are in effect in a wide range of areas, including trade, finance, energy (including oil and coal), industry, technology, transport, dual-use goods and luxury items, as well as gold and diamonds.

Among the sanctions are also a ban on supplies from Russia to the EU of crude oil and certain petroleum products transported by sea, the exclusion of certain Russian banks from the international SWIFT payment system and the suspension of the activities of numerous media outlets. The EU sanctions list includes more than 2,500 individuals and organizations.

Source: Anadolu