The European Union is preparing to introduce extensive restrictive measures, which will be the largest in the last four years. This was officially announced by the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas. According to her, the new 21st sanctions package covers an unprecedented number of items — a total of 218 entities have been added to the “black lists”.
Focus on the defense industry and long-range drones
Brussels has clearly defined its priorities: ignoring Russia’s attacks on the civilian population, critical infrastructure, and Ukraine’s cultural heritage is no longer possible. In this regard, more than 50 enterprises of the Russian defense industry have been included in the sanctions lists. Special attention is paid to key players involved in the production of Russian long-range unmanned aerial vehicles, which cause significant damage to Ukrainian territory.
These measures are not isolated but complement the restrictions introduced last week. Previously, individuals responsible for the brutal treatment and killing of Ukrainian prisoners of war, as well as detained civilians, were targeted. In addition, technology companies assisting the Kremlin in implementing repressive policies against internet users were also added to the list.
Political consensus and new leverage
The process of coordinating the new package was completed on July 23, when EU ambassadors reached an agreement. Despite the fact that some members of the bloc previously tried to delay the adoption of restrictions, the final document was approved. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also confirmed the presence of additional leverage in the new sanctions, which will be aimed at weakening the military potential of the adversary.
