EU extends Russia sanctions for one year in unprecedented move

European Union leaders have agreed to extend sanctions against Russia over its war in Ukraine for an additional 12 months, marking the first time the bloc has renewed the measures for a full year instead of the customary six-month period.

The decision was taken during a summit of the European Council in Brussels on June 18. The meeting began with the participation of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy before continuing with discussions among EU leaders, Caliber.Az reports via Ukrainian media. 

Maria Tomasik, spokesperson for the president of the European Council, said member states had approved conclusions on Ukraine and agreed to prolong sanctions against Russia for another year.

The sanctions, which target key sectors of the Russian economy, were first imposed following Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and have been repeatedly renewed since then. The measures were significantly expanded after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Until now, the sanctions regime had been extended every six months, requiring unanimous approval from all 27 EU member states each time. The decision to renew the measures for a full year is expected to provide greater predictability and demonstrate continued EU unity in support of Ukraine.

By Sabina Mammadli