EU introduces new sanctions regime against Russian hybrid activity
Published
The EU decided on 8 October to introduce a new sanctions regime in response to Russia’s destabilising activities. The sanctions aim to counter Russia’s hybrid activity against the EU, its Member States and international partners.
“Sweden has been a driving force in establishing a new sanctions regime in connection with Russia’s destabilising activities. This is a concrete step the EU is now taking in response to Russian hybrid activity. This means establishing a sanctions regime directed at those who are responsible for, support or benefit from Russian’s hybrid activity in the EU and globally,” says Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard.
Russian hybrid activity has intensified and is high on the agenda for the EU, as it is for NATO. Within the framework of the EU Strategic Compass for Security and Defence, tools have been developed to detect and respond to various hybrid threats. These threats include sabotage, disruptive actions, foreign information manipulation, disinformation, malicious cyberactivity and the instrumentalisation of migration. Tools to counter these threats are being developed continuously, with the aim of making the most of all available instruments to strengthen EU resilience and prevent, deter and respond to Russia’s hybrid activity. The restrictive measures now being adopted are part of these efforts.
New EU sanctions regime against Russia’s destabilising activity
In response to Russia’s intensified hybrid activities, the EU is introducing a new sanctions regime. The sanctions regime was adopted in light of the European Council’s conclusions of 27 June, which condemned all types of Russian hybrid activity.
The new restrictive measures are aimed at natural or legal persons, entities or bodies that are responsible for carrying out or supporting policies or actions by the Russian Government that undermine or threaten:
- the EU’s fundamental values and its security, independence and integrity;
- the Member States’ and international organisations’ or third countries’ stability, security or independence; or
- the sovereignty of Member States and third countries.
These restrictive measures are targeted and include the freezing of assets and prohibition to make funds available, including travel bans for individuals entering or through the European Union’s territory.
Press contact
Press Secretary to Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard
Phone (switchboard) +46 8 405 10 00
Mobile +46 76-5342523
email to Richard Wahlström
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