The Council today adopted a package of measures in response to the decision of the Russian Federation to recognize the non-governmental controlled territories of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine as independent entities, as well as the subsequent decision to send Russian troops to these areas. p>
“Such decisions are illegal and unacceptable. They violate international law, the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine, Russia's international commitments and further escalate the crisis, “said EU High Representative Josep Borrell.
The package agreed today includes:/p>
& # 8211; Targeted Restrictive Measures
Under the current sanctions framework, the EU will extend restrictive measures to cover the 351 members of the Russian State Duma who voted on February 15 to call on President Putin to recognize the independence of the so-called “democratic republics.” and Luhansk.
In addition, targeted restrictive measures will be imposed on an additional 27 individuals and high-profile entities that have played a role in undermining or threatening Ukraine's territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence. These include decision-makers, such as members of the government involved in illegal decisions, banks and businessmen/oligarchs who financially or materially support or benefit from Russian activities in the Donetsk and Luhansk territories, or senior military actors who have played a role in the actions. invasion and destabilization and those who played a leading role in the war on misinformation against Ukraine.
Restrictive measures include freezing assets and banning the allocation of funds to listed individuals and entities. In addition, the travel ban on persons on the list prevents entry or transit through EU territory.
& # 8211; Restrictions on economic relations with government-controlled areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions
The new measures will target trade from the two government-controlled areas to and from the EU, to ensure that those responsible will clearly feel the financial consequences of their illegal and aggressive actions.
Today's decision will introduce in particular a ban on the import of goods from non-governmental controlled areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, restrictions on trade and investment related to certain economic sectors, a ban on the provision of tourism services and a ban on exports of certain goods. >
& # 8211; Financial constraints
The Council decided to introduce a sectoral ban on the financing of the Russian Federation, its government and the Central Bank. By limiting the ability of the Russian state and government to access the EU's capital markets and financial markets and services, the EU aims to reduce funding for aggressive and escalating policies.
The EU urges Russia to withdraw the recognition of the non-governmental controlled areas of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, abide by its commitments, abide by international law and return to the Normandy and Tripartite Contact Group discussions. The EU also urges other states not to follow Russia's illegal decision to recognize this declared independence. and its commitment to Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.
