European Union: European Union member states have not yet reached agreement on the proposed 21st package of sanctions against Russia, according to EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. However, foreign ministers are expected to consider adding 250 individuals and entities to the bloc’s sanctions list.
What new measures are under discussion?
Kallas said the proposed 250 new listings would represent the largest single expansion of the EU’s Russia sanctions list to date. She added that negotiations on the broader sanctions package are continuing, with several key issues still unresolved.
Which issues remain unresolved?
Among the outstanding proposals are a ban on maritime services linked to Russia and stricter restrictions on Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG). EU member states have yet to reach a consensus on these measures.
What concerns have EU officials raised?
Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys urged member states to prioritise security interests over economic considerations, warning that delaying tougher sanctions could undermine the EU’s response to Russia.
What happens next?
EU foreign ministers are expected to continue discussions in Brussels, with efforts focused on securing agreement on both the expanded sanctions list and the broader 21st sanctions package.