The European Union plans to expand its sanctions against Russia in the autumn. Kaja Kallas, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, discussed the Russia-Ukraine war and the bloc’s sanctions policy with the German newspaper Die Welt.
Kallas said the most extensive sanctions list against Russia since the beginning of the war would be presented in the autumn. She did not provide details on which individuals, companies or organizations would be included on the list.
If the new restrictive measures are adopted, the number of sanctioned Russian individuals, companies and organizations would increase by approximately one-third. Kallas said pressure on Russia must be increased until the war ends.
The scope of the EU’s sanctions against Russia
The EU has imposed 21 sanctions packages against Russia over the war. Restrictions cover trade, finance, energy, industry, technology and transport, as well as dual-use goods, luxury products, and the trade in gold and diamonds.
A ban on shipments of Russian crude oil and certain petroleum products transported by sea to the EU is also in force. Restrictions on transactions with Russian banks and the suspension of broadcasting activities by numerous Russian media organizations are among the other measures in place.
Approximately 3,000 individuals and organizations are covered by the EU sanctions imposed over Russia’s actions threatening Ukraine’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence.
Unanimity required for sanctions
EU member states must reach a unanimous decision to adopt sanctions against Russia.