The European Union announced Thursday it will continue sanctions targeting supporters of Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine for another six months, despite ongoing resistance from Hungary and Slovakia.
The decision by the Council, which represents all 27 EU member nations, keeps restrictive measures in place until September 15 against those accused of undermining Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
While maintaining the bulk of sanctions, EU officials did make some adjustments to the list. Two living individuals had their sanctions lifted, including Dutch national Niels Troost, who had been sanctioned for involvement in Russian oil trading, according to diplomatic sources. Additionally, five deceased individuals were removed from the sanctions roster.
Currently, approximately 2,600 people and organizations face these punitive measures, which include travel bans, asset freezes, and prohibitions on providing financial resources to those listed. These sanctions have grown progressively since Russia launched its military offensive against Ukraine in February 2022.
The extension faced hurdles from Hungary and Slovakia, both countries having previously pushed for the removal of several Russian oligarchs from the sanctions framework, EU diplomatic sources revealed.
Adding to the tension, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban called on the European Union Monday to halt sanctions targeting Russian energy, citing rising prices driven by the conflict in Iran. Both Hungary and Slovakia have also clashed with Ukraine regarding Russian oil shipments flowing through the Druzhba pipeline system.
