The EU's 17th package of sanctions further intensifies restrictive measures against Russia in response to its continued war of aggression against Ukraine. This package introduces new listings and expands sectoral measures, with a particular focus on:

Curtailing military and industrial capabilities:

• Sanctions were imposed on over 45 Russian companies and individuals supplying drones, ammunition, and critical logistical components to the Russian military.
• The scope of export restrictions was enlarged to include additional dual-use goods and industrial tools, curbing Russia's ability to enhance its defence sector.

Targeting energy revenue:

• The Russian oil giant Surgutneftegaz and an influential shipping company were sanctioned, further limiting Russia’s ability to finance its military operations.
• These measures contribute to the broader objective of reducing Russian oil revenues, which have already dropped by €38 billion since 2023.

Disabling the shadow fleet:

• The EU imposed its widest-ranging sanctions to date on Russia’s shadow fleet, targeting 189 vessels engaged in the clandestine transport of Russian oil. These vessels now face operational restrictions, including port bans and a prohibition on related services.
• The measures also target insurers and operators associated with this fleet, aiming to dismantle its operational integrity.

Occupied territories and cultural heritage:

• Additional sanctions focus on Russia's looting of cultural artifacts in occupied Crimea and illegal exploitation of Ukrainian agricultural resources.

This package, combined with prior measures, brings the total number of individuals and entities subject to EU sanctions over Ukraine-related actions to more than 2,400.

In response to severe human rights abuses within Russia, the EU has listed 28 individuals, including:

• Judges and prosecutors from the Supreme Court and regional courts.
• Members of the Investigative Committee implicated in politically motivated prosecutions.

Notably, these individuals have been involved in the persecution of the late opposition leader Alexei Navalny and the suppression of democratic opposition, ultimately undermining the rule of law in Russia.

Addressing Russia's hybrid activities aimed at destabilising the EU and its partners, the EU Council has:

• Sanctioned 21 individuals and six entities responsible for disinformation campaigns, cyberattacks, and other destabilising actions.
• Expanded the sanctions framework to include tangible assets such as vessels, aircraft, real estate, and components of digital and communication networks.
• Introduced restrictions on transactions involving credit institutions, financial entities, and crypto-asset service providers linked to these activities.
• The suspension of broadcasting licences of Russian media outlets controlled by Russia and the prohibition of broadcasting content in the EU.

Following reports by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) confirming the use of riot control agents like CS gas in Ukraine, the EU has sanctioned three Russian military entities:

• Radiological Chemical and Biological Defence Troops
• 27th Scientific Centre
• 33rd Central Scientific Research and Testing Institute of the Ministry of Defence

These entities are involved in the development and deployment of chemical weapons, contravening international law.

The European Union's latest sanctions underscore its commitment to upholding international law, human rights, and the sovereignty of Ukraine. By targeting key sectors and individuals responsible for aggression and destabilisation, the EU aims to compel Russia to cease its unlawful activities and engage in meaningful dialogue.

For detailed information on the sanctions and their legal basis, please refer to the official press releases:

• 17th Package of Sanctions
• Human Rights Violations
• Hybrid Threats
• Chemical Weapons