The EU is planning a new expansion of its sanctions policy toward Russia this autumn. Kaja Kallas, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, said in an interview with the German newspaper Die Welt that the list would be the most comprehensive sanctions package prepared since the start of the war.
Kallas announced that new restrictive measures would be presented this autumn as the Russia-Ukraine war continues. She did not provide details on which individuals, companies or entities would be included on the list, but said pressure on Russia must be increased until the war ends.
If the new measures are adopted, the number of sanctioned Russian individuals, companies and entities would increase by approximately one-third.
EU sanctions in force
The EU has so far implemented 21 sanctions packages against Russia over the war. The current restrictions cover trade, finance, energy, industry, technology, transport, dual-use goods, luxury goods, and the trade in gold and diamonds.
The sanctions also include a ban on the shipment of crude oil transported by sea from Russia to the EU, as well as certain petroleum products. Restrictions have been imposed on transactions involving Russian banks, while the broadcasting activities of numerous Russian media outlets have also been suspended.
Approximately 3,000 individuals and entities are subject to EU sanctions imposed over Russia’s actions threatening Ukraine’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence.
Unanimity requirement
EU member states must make a unanimous decision for the bloc to expand its sanctions against Russia.