Brussels: The European Union (EU) Council announced on Monday the extension of sanctions imposed on Russia in response to what it described as the "illegal annexation" of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol until 23 June 2026.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the Council explained that the restrictive measures, which were first introduced in June 2014, include a ban on the import of products originating from Crimea and Sevastopol into EU countries, as well as a prohibition on infrastructure or financial investments and the provision of tourism services to and from the two regions.
The sanctions also include a ban on the export of certain goods and technologies to companies in Crimea or for use in key sectors such as transport, telecommunications, energy, and the exploration and production of oil, gas, and minerals.
The EU reiterated that it does not recognize the "illegal annexation" of Crimea and Sevastopol by Russia, considering it a flagrant violation of international law.
The statement added that "since 2022, Russia has further violated Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity," affirming that the EU remains committed to supporting Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.
The EU emphasized its full commitment to implementing its non-recognition policy of the Russian annexation of Crimea, confirming that the sanctions remain a key component of that approach.