Brussels: EU foreign ministers have decided to extend sanctions imposed on Russia "due to its war against Ukraine" for an additional 6 months, until 31 July 2025. The decision marks a significant development in the EU's approach to the ongoing conflict.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the decision came after Hungary, which had previously refused to approve it, finally agreed to the extension. The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy emphasized that this move will continue to deprive Moscow of revenues to finance its war. The European Union's process of reviewing and deciding on the extension of sanctions occurs annually and requires unanimous agreement.
Hungary, which is considered close to Russia within Europe, had been obstructing the decision in recent months. The country demanded guarantees concerning the reopening of a gas pipeline from Ukraine to Central Europe, which was a sticking point in the negotiations.
The sanctions include a broad range of sectoral actions, such as restrictions on trade, finance, energy, technology, dual-use goods, industry, transport, and luxury goods. Additionally, they encompass a ban on the import or transfer of seaborne crude oil and certain petroleum products from Russia to the EU. Moreover, the measures halt the broadcasting activities and licenses in the EU for several Kremlin-backed media outlets.