EU Agrees on New Sanctions Targeting Russia and Chinese Entities
European Union (EU) countries have reached a consensus on a fresh set of sanctions against Russia, aimed at individuals and businesses suspected of aiding Moscow’s actions in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. The sanctions also extend to Chinese companies allegedly involved in supporting Russia.
The decision, announced on Wednesday, coincides with the grim milestone of the second anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which commenced on February 24, 2022. It also follows the recent passing of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny.
Belgium, currently holding the rotating presidency of the 27-nation bloc, described the sanctions package as one of the most comprehensive measures ever approved by the EU.
Reportedly, EU ambassadors from all member states unanimously endorsed the imposition of sanctions on approximately 200 entities and individuals. The specifics of the targets, including the sanctioned Chinese companies, will be disclosed upon formal publication in the EU’s legal journal.
Since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the invasion of Ukraine, the EU has implemented several rounds of sanctions against Russia. These measures have targeted various sectors, including energy, finance, and defense, and have involved asset freezes and travel bans for Russian officials.
The new sanctions aim to intensify trade restrictions on entities linked to Russia’s military-industrial complex and impose additional bans on the export of advanced components for drone production to Russia.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed the agreement on the 13th sanctions package against Russia, emphasizing the need to continue weakening Putin’s military capabilities. The package, comprising over 2,000 listings in total, underscores the EU’s determination to exert sustained pressure on the Kremlin.
Belgium has announced that the sanctions package will undergo a written procedure and receive formal approval on Saturday, coinciding with the second anniversary of the conflict’s outbreak.
