The Council of the European Union has decided to extend sanctions against individuals deemed responsible for undermining Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty for an additional six months, until September 15. This decision affects approximately 2,600 individuals and entities.
Among the notable updates, five deceased individuals were removed from the sanctions list, while sanctions against two others were not renewed. These include Dutch oil trader Niels Troost and Maya Bolotova, the daughter of the head of Transneft.
The sanctions impose travel bans, asset freezes, and prohibit the provision of funds or economic resources to those listed. This move is part of the EU’s broader strategy to weaken Russia’s economic base and limit its military capabilities in light of the ongoing conflict.
Reports indicate that Slovakia has intensified efforts to seek the removal of sanctions against Russian-Israeli oligarch Mikhail Friedman and Usmanov, a move previously discussed during the last sanctions review in September 2025. Additionally, Hungary is advocating for the exclusion of oligarchs Dmitry Mazepin, Petr Aven, Musa Bazhaev, and Albert Avdolyan from the sanctions list.
Since the onset of Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the EU has significantly expanded its sanctions regime. The aim has been to diminish Russia’s access to critical technologies and markets, thereby limiting its capacity to conduct warfare.
In a statement supported by 25 heads of state or government during the European Council meeting on December 18, 2025, the EU reaffirmed its unwavering support for Ukraine’s independence and territorial integrity. The EU has committed to continuing its political, financial, economic, humanitarian, military, and diplomatic support for Ukraine.
The EU remains determined to maintain and intensify pressure on Russia to halt its aggressive actions and engage in meaningful peace negotiations.
The EU has extended sanctions against individuals threatening Ukraine's sovereignty for six months, impacting around 2,600 entities. The decision reflects ongoing support for Ukraine amid efforts by some member states to seek exemptions for specific oligarchs.