Leaders of the European Union agreed to extend sanctions imposed on Russia over its full-scale invasion of Ukraine for a full year. Reuters reported this.
Previously, the EU had renewed these restrictive measures every six months. Hungary and Slovakia had earlier insisted on keeping that timetable.
This time, however, neither country raised objections. Deutsche Welle linked that change to the departure of Viktor Orban from the post of Hungary’s prime minister.
New restrictions
In early June, the European Union announced a new, 21st package of sanctions against Russia. Among other measures, it is expected to include 90 banks.
In addition, the European Commission has proposed banning entry into the EU for all Russian citizens who took part in the war against Ukraine or served in the military after February 24, 2022.
The EU is also discussing a broader entry ban for all Russians who have served in the military since 2022. Estimates suggest such a measure could affect more than one million people.