Image Credits- newsonair.gov.in
The European Union has unanimously approved its 13th package of sanctions against Russia in response to Moscow’s aggression towards Ukraine. The latest measures target nearly 200 entities and individuals allegedly involved in aiding Russia’s procurement of weapons and the abduction of Ukrainian children.
Belgium, currently holding the EU presidency, announced the approval of the sanctions on social media, describing them as one of the most extensive measures endorsed by the EU. While the sanctions focus primarily on adding entities and individuals to the existing travel and business restrictions list, no additional measures against specific economic sectors have been introduced.
The targeted entities include those affiliated with Russia’s military industrial complex and individuals involved in the trafficking and kidnapping of Ukrainian children. Notably, the sanctions also extend to a North Korean and a Belarusian firm, reflecting the international scope of the measures.
The decision to impose sanctions comes amid ongoing accusations against Russia regarding the abduction of Ukrainian children from orphanages and care homes in occupied regions. The International Criminal Court has indicted Russian officials, including President Vladimir Putin, for these alleged war crimes, although Moscow denies any wrongdoing.
Furthermore, the sanctions aim to disrupt the procurement network supporting Russia’s military activities, particularly in the realm of drone technology. European firms are prohibited from selling dual-use goods to 27 newly listed companies, primarily Russian entities, alongside three mainland Chinese firms and one Hong Kong-based company.
These measures, set to be formally approved ahead of the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on February 24, underscore the EU’s commitment to curbing Russian aggression and supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasised the importance of degrading Russia’s military capabilities and limiting its access to advanced weaponry.
In addition to imposing new sanctions, EU ambassadors have also renewed the existing sanctions regime targeting approximately 2,000 individuals and companies for another six months. However, concerns persist over the effectiveness of these measures in deterring Russian aggression, particularly as Russia continues to exert control over Ukrainian territory and escalate tensions in the region.
The latest sanctions represent the EU’s ongoing efforts to hold Russia accountable for its actions in Ukraine and signal solidarity with the Ukrainian people amidst ongoing conflict and instability in the region.
