EU Extends Sanctions Against Russia
European Union foreign ministers have agreed to extend sanctions against Russia for another six months. The decision was announced by the EU’s chief diplomat, Kaja Kallas.
The sanctions aim to stop Russia from getting money to fund its war in Ukraine. Russia will continue to lose revenue from gas and oil exports.
Hungary had threatened to block the extension of sanctions unless Ukraine agreed to resume transit of Russian gas through its territory. However, Hungary’s Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said that the EU had provided guarantees on energy security.
Ukraine stopped transit of Russian natural gas on January 1. It will not be resumed by the end of this year as it wants to avoid financing Russia’s war. Ukraine still transits Russian oil.
The EU has imposed 15 sets of sanctions against Russia, including restrictions on individuals and companies. The latest package is expected to target imports of aluminum, agricultural products, and gas.