EU implements its first-ever sanctions over Russia’s alleged disinformation

The European Union adopted a new sanctions package Monday aimed at further restricting Russia’s ability to continue its “illegal, unprovoked, and unjustified” war against Ukraine.

“These measures are designed to address the circumvention of EU sanctions by targeting (Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s shadow fleet and weakening Russia’s military and industrial complex,” the EU Council said in a statement.

The 15th package includes sanctions on 54 individuals and 30 entities. Those listed include the military unit responsible for the strike on the Okhmatdyt Children’s Hospital in Kyiv, senior energy executives, individuals involved in the deportation of Ukrainian children, and others accused of propaganda and sanctions evasion.

Sanctions also target Russian defense and shipping companies, including those transporting crude oil and oil products, as well as a chemical plant and a civil airline providing logistical support to the Russian military.

Chinese firms sanctioned over drone components

For the first time, Chinese firms supplying drone components and microelectronics aiding Russia’s war effort were sanctioned, marking a significant development more than a thousand days into the conflict.

Additionally, the EU sanctioned 52 vessels, including non-EU tankers accused of circumventing the oil price cap, transporting stolen Ukrainian grain, or supporting Russia’s energy sector. The total number of sanctioned vessels now stands at 79.

The measures also tighten export restrictions on 32 entities supporting Russia’s defense industry. Some are based in third countries, including China, India, Iran, Serbia, and the United Arab Emirates.

The EU introduced protections for European companies facing litigation risks with Russian entities, banning recognition of court rulings from Russia that violate international norms. It also extended deadlines for companies divesting from the Russian market, allowing for an orderly exit.

In its statement, the EU reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, pledging continued political, economic, and military aid.

“The EU remains ready to further limit Russia’s ability to wage war, including by imposing additional sanctions,” the council said, stressing that Ukraine must prevail in the conflict.

The legal details of the sanctions were published in the Official Journal of the EU.

The EU has imposed a series of sanctions on Russia since its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, which marked a new phase in the conflict that began in 2014. These sanctions have led to a sharp decline in trade between the two regions.