EU set to unveil 16th sanctions package against Russia
Foreign ministers from member states will attend a Council of the European Union meeting on Monday in Brussels. The meeting will focus on reviewing the 16th package of sanctions against Russia, which was planned for the third anniversary of Russia's aggression against Ukraine.
The European Union is preparing new sanctions against the Kremlin, which will take effect in February. A high-ranking official announced that the sanctions are intended to limit Russia's ability to finance the war. "There will be further restrictions if Russia does not cease its aggression," he emphasized.
The 16th package is in preparation, alongside ongoing discussions about using frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine. The aim is to have this package approved by the third anniversary of Russia's aggression, which is on February 24.
Simultaneously, EU authorities are working on extending the current sanctions for another year. Although there have been concerns about opposition from Hungary, officials are optimistic about their adoption.
Support for Ukraine
The ministers will also discuss military support for Ukraine at the meeting. Priorities include the supply of ammunition, air defence systems, and the training of Ukrainian soldiers. The EU High Representative, Kaja Kallas, is leading talks to provide Ukraine with additional military support.
Following Donald Trump's re-election as President of the United States, EU ministers will discuss the future of transatlantic relations. It was indicated that these are crucial for global politics and security.
The ministers will debate the lifting of some sanctions on Syria, which would symbolize a new approach to the country after the removal of the previous regime. However, the EU has expressed firm conditions, such as inclusivity in the central government and the cessation of external interference, including the presence of the Russian military.
The Union is considering imposing visa restrictions on Georgian officials due to violence against demonstrators in Tbilisi. In the case of Moldova, a key issue will be Russia's actions in Transnistria, which, according to the EU, fall within Putin's hybrid strategy, using energy as a tool of political pressure.
