EU Imposes Sanctions Over Russia’s Actions in Ukraine

The European Union has imposed sanctions on over 80 individuals and entities in response to Moscow’s ongoing war in Ukraine. Among those targeted is Georgiy Shevkunov, also known as Metropolitan Tikhon, a senior figure in the Russian Orthodox Church. He has been accused of spreading Russian propaganda to justify the invasion of Ukraine, according to the EU’s statement.

Known in Russian media as President Vladimir Putin’s ‘confessor,’ Shevkunov was appointed Metropolitan of Crimea in 2023, a region Russia annexed from Ukraine in 2014. Early last year, Russia’s FSB security service reported thwarting a plot to assassinate the bishop, orchestrated by Ukrainian authorities.

The EU’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, stated that the new sanctions aim to exert pressure on Russia to cease its military activities. These measures target Russia’s military-industrial operations, including companies and individuals involved in producing drones and other equipment for Russian forces.

The sanctions extend to influencers spreading Russian propaganda, and entities assisting Russia in funding the war, particularly through oil shipments and exports. Legal and law enforcement officials tied to the suspected poisoning of opposition leader Alexei Navalny are also affected.

Kallas emphasized that the sanctions shrink Russia’s operational capabilities and have cost the country over $1 trillion. Asset freezes, travel bans, and restrictions on financial transactions are part of the measures.

These sanctions correspond with Russia’s missile attacks on Ukrainian cities, resulting in casualties and damage, including a significant fire at an Orthodox monastery. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on G7 leaders for increased pressure on Moscow.

Russia’s invasion in February 2022 has led to Europe’s most severe conflict since World War II, claiming thousands of civilian lives and numerous military casualties.