EU unveils 16th sanctions package targeting Russian propaganda
The European Union is preparing its 16th package of sanctions against Russia, set to be adopted on February 24, marking the third anniversary of Russia's full invasion of Ukraine, as reported by the German newspaper "Welt am Sonntag," citing sources within the EU administration. It was revealed that the restrictions will target individuals involved in propaganda efforts.
The European Union plans to introduce another sanctions package against Russia, the 16th in the series, which will be adopted on February 24. According to "Welt am Sonntag" on Sunday, the sanctions are intended to target people and organizations participating in the hybrid war and propagating the Russian regime, which undermines Ukraine's territorial integrity.
EU prepares another package of sanctions against Russia
The new sanctions focus on sectors of the Russian economy that have not yet been thoroughly addressed. The European Commission and the European External Action Service also plan to impose entry bans and asset freezes on individuals spying for Russia.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has opposed further sanctions, preferring to wait for Donald Trump to take office. Only in mid-December did the EU adopt the 15th package of sanctions, which included, among other measures, a ban on port access for the Russian shadow fleet designed to circumvent existing restrictions.
Ten EU countries have urged the European Commission to consider a joint proposal, expedite work on the sanctions package against Russia, and develop similar restrictions for Belarus, which is allied with Moscow. This involves enhancing existing regulations. These efforts are primarily intended to target the Russian energy sector.
Countries, mainly from Central Europe and Ireland, emphasized that it is crucial to impose a ban on importing Russian gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) as soon as possible. If this proves impossible, the document's signatories suggested as an alternative the gradual reduction of consumption of Russian gas and LNG, per the plan outlined in the EU's RePower strategy. The document recommended that targeted sanctions extend to the Russian fleet transporting LNG, including restrictions on port access and the use of other maritime services.
