EU imposes sanctions on Russia over hybrid threats

Europe-Asia

BRUSSELS, Belgium (NPA) — The European Union has announced new sanctions targeting individuals and entities linked to Russia’s hybrid campaigns against the EU and its member states, condemning what it described as persistent attempts to undermine democracy, security, and critical infrastructure.

In a statement, the EU said Russia’s hybrid activities — including sabotage, cyberattacks, disinformation, and interference in electoral processes — have intensified since Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. These actions, it noted, form part of a broader, coordinated campaign aimed at destabilising the EU, its partners, and neighbouring states such as Ukraine and Moldova.

The sanctions regime, first adopted in October 2024 and expanded in May 2025, allows the EU to target individuals and entities engaged in destabilising activities. Measures include travel bans, asset freezes, and restrictions on financial transactions, as well as prohibitions on making funds or economic resources available to those listed.

Currently, 69 individuals and 19 entities are sanctioned under this framework. Those affected include propagandists, media figures, influencers, and companies such as the state-owned Russian Television and Radio Broadcasting Network and the BRICS Journalists Association.

The EU stressed that it remains determined to expose and counter Russia’s hybrid threats, pledging to use “the full range of tools available” to protect its democratic institutions and hold perpetrators accountable.

In addition to hybrid-related sanctions, the EU has imposed sweeping measures in response to Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine, including economic restrictions, diplomatic measures, visa bans, and the suspension of broadcasting licences for Russian state-controlled media outlets accused of spreading disinformation.