EU Preparing New Sanctions Over Russia’s Hybrid Threats

The European Union is set to implement a new thematic sanctions regime, specifically targeting hybrid threats posed by Russia.

According to a report from Radio Svoboda editor Ricard Jozwiak on X (Twitter), EU ambassadors are expected to agree on the new sanctions framework on October 2, with formal adoption scheduled for the following week.

While specific names have yet to be added to the list, Jozwiak stated that they will be included at a later stage. Initially, there were discussions about a more general sanctions regime, but the focus has now shifted to addressing Russian threats directly.

The EU has already imposed numerous sanctions in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. These measures cover various sectors, including finance, energy, trade, transport, and visas, with the aim of applying economic pressure on Russia to halt its military actions.

The new sanctions regime will add to a comprehensive set of restrictions, currently in its 14th package, implemented in June 2024. This latest package includes personal sanctions against 116 individuals and entities, further limits on energy-related activities—specifically, a ban on the transfer of Russian liquefied natural gas within the EU—and restrictions on financial operations.