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EU extends Russia sanctions for six more months amid Ukraine war

With 2,600 names still blacklisted, the EU tightens its stance. But why were some sanctions quietly lifted—and what does it signal?

The image shows a blue poster with text and a graph depicting the average retail gas price in...
The image shows a blue poster with text and a graph depicting the average retail gas price in Russia and Ukraine, with the text indicating that gas prices have fallen back to levels before Putin's war.

EU extends Russia sanctions for six more months amid Ukraine war

The European Union has extended its individual sanctions against Russia by another six months. The measures will now remain in place until September 15, 2026. The decision reflects the EU's ongoing efforts to pressure Russia over its war in Ukraine.

The current blacklist covers around 2,600 people and organisations. Existing restrictions include travel bans, asset freezes, and prohibitions on providing funds or economic support.

The latest extension follows a review of the sanctions regime. During this process, two individuals—Dutch oil trader Nils Troost and Maya Bolotova—were removed from the list. Their sanctions were not renewed.

Additionally, five other individuals were delisted after their deaths. Despite these changes, the EU has reaffirmed its commitment to keeping pressure on Russia. Officials continue to demand an end to the war and a return to peace negotiations.

The sanctions framework remains broad, targeting key figures and entities linked to the conflict. Travel restrictions prevent listed individuals from entering EU territory. Asset freezes block their access to funds within the bloc, while economic bans cut off financial support.

The EU's decision extends restrictions for another half-year. The updated list still includes thousands of names, though a small number of removals were made. Authorities have stressed that the sanctions will stay in force until Russia changes its course in Ukraine.

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