EU establishes new sanctions framework against Russia for its destabilising actions abroad

The Council of the European Union today established a new framework for restrictive measures in response to Russia’s destabilising actions abroad.

This new framework will allow the EU to target individuals and entities engaged in actions and policies by the government of the Russian Federation, which undermine the fundamental values of the EU and its Member States, their security, independence and integrity, as well as those of international organisations and third countries.

The EU will as of now be able to address a variety of hybrid threats, such as: actions undermining electoral processes and the functioning of democratic institutions; threats against and sabotage of economic activities, services of public interest or critical infrastructure; the use of coordinated disinformation, foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI); malicious cyber activities, the instrumentalisation of migrants, and other destabilising activities.

Today’s decision, based on a proposal by the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell, is part of the EU’s response to the continued campaign of hybrid activities by Russia, which has recently increased through new operations on European soil.

Under this newly established framework, those designated will be subject to an asset freeze and EU citizens and companies will be forbidden from making funds available to them. In addition, natural persons will also be subject to a travel ban, which will prevent them from entering or transiting through EU territories.

In his statement on behalf of the EU, the EU High Representative Josep Borrell strongly condemned Russia’s intensifying campaign of hybrid activities against the EU, its Member States, and partners. 

“These activities again illustrate Russia’s reckless and irresponsible behaviour and its disregard for the rules-based international order and international law,” said Borrell.

He added that Russia’s activities aim, among other targets, to undermine the EU’s support to Ukraine and its ability to defend itself. “This will not succeed: we will act united and determined to address these activities and hold perpetrators accountable. Our support to Ukraine will remain solid and unwavering for as long as it takes,” Borrell said.

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Press release

Borrell’s statement