France outlines new EU sanctions against Russia

On December 15, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot outlined new European Union sanctions targeting Russia ahead of a meeting of the EU Council for Foreign Affairs.

The new measures will target both entities and individuals that the EU believes are linked to Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” and to efforts to destabilise Europe, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Barrot said nine companies would face sanctions for allegedly helping to circumvent existing restrictions on the Russian “shadow fleet”. These include shipping firms reportedly working with Russian energy giants Lukoil and Rosneft.

In addition, the EU plans to sanction 12 individuals accused of acting as agents of Russian destabilisation in Europe, reportedly involved in external interference or digital campaigns.

Among those targeted are Xavier Moreau, a Franco-Russian national living in Russia, who the EU says spreads pro-Kremlin propaganda, and John Mark Dougan, linked to the disinformation campaign Storm 1516.

By Aghakazim Guliyev