EU unveils new sanctions framework targeting Russian ‘destabilising actions’
The European Union announced it has ‘established a new framework for restrictive measures in response to Russia’s destabilising actions abroad,’ allowing sanctions on individuals and entities involved in actions that threaten the bloc’s fundamental values, security and integrity.
The new framework enables the EU to address a wide range of hybrid threats, such as: ‘undermining electoral processes and the functioning of democratic institutions; threats against and sabotage of economic activities, services of public interest or critical infrastructure; the use of coordinated disinformation, foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI); malicious cyber activities, the instrumentalisation of migrants, and other destabilising activities.’
Under this framework, designated individuals will face an asset freeze and travel ban, preventing them from entering or transiting through EU territories. EU citizens and companies will be forbidden from making funds available to the designated persons.
The Council’s 8 October press release notes that this decision aligns with the Strategic Compass for Security and Defence, approved in 2022, which called for the development of an ‘EU Hybrid Toolbox.’
