The European Union is preparing to impose new sanctions on 80 Russian organizations and individuals linked to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. These measures aim to intensify financial pressure on Russia and escalate its economic losses.
Kaja Kallas, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, announced the expansion of the sanctions list targeting Russia’s military-industrial complex and its propagandists. According to Kallas, the economic damage inflicted on Russia has already reached a staggering $1.5 trillion.
Brussels intends to broaden the scope of sanctions significantly. Kallas made this announcement during an informal meeting of defense ministers from EU member states in Cyprus.
The new restrictions will focus on the following categories:
- Enterprises within the Russian military-industrial complex;
- Individuals responsible for human rights violations;
- Kremlin propagandists.
Kallas emphasized that the sanctions are effective, noting that President Putin is losing money, personnel, and momentum. This, she argued, is why Russia has intensified its attacks on Ukrainian civilians.
“Brick by brick, we are dismantling the foundations of Russia’s war economy,” Kallas stated.
The number of sanctioned entities continues to grow, with the EU having expanded its restrictions to include 2,600 individuals and organizations as of March. The bloc’s strategy remains consistent: freezing assets and cutting off funding for Russia’s military operations.
During the meeting, ministers also discussed the future of a €6.6 billion fund designated for military assistance to Ukraine. Previously, these funds were allocated solely to reimburse countries for weapons already supplied. However, Kallas proposed using this money for:
- Financing joint procurement of new weapons for the Ukrainian Armed Forces;
- Direct military assistance from the European Union.
The EU is striving to act independently, a move deemed crucial amid a perceived weakening of U.S. support. Kallas reiterated Europe’s commitment to ensuring steady backing for Kyiv and preventing Moscow from regaining military superiority.
The EU is set to impose new sanctions on 80 Russian entities to increase economic pressure related to the Ukraine conflict. The bloc is also revising its military assistance strategy to enhance support for Ukraine.