EU Council approves new sanctions against Russia

European Council today established a new framework for restrictive measures in response to Russia’s destabilizing actions abroad, Report informs, citing the council.

“This new framework will allow the EU to target individuals and entities engaged in actions and policies by the government of the Russian Federation, which undermine the fundamental values of the EU and its Member States, their security, independence, and integrity, as well as those of international organizations and third countries.

The EU will as of now be able to address a variety of hybrid threats, such as the undermining electoral processes and the functioning of democratic institutions; threats against and sabotage of economic activities, services of public interest or critical infrastructure; the use of coordinated disinformation, foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI); malicious cyber activities, the instrumentalization of migrants, and other destabilizing activities.

Today’s decision, based on a proposal by the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell, is part of the EU’s response to the continued campaign of hybrid activities by Russia, which has recently increased through new operations on European soil.

Under this newly established framework, those designated will be subject to an asset freeze and EU citizens and companies will be forbidden from making funds available to them. In addition, natural persons will also be subject to a travel ban, which will prevent them from entering or transiting through EU territories,” reads the statement.