EU Sanctions More Russian Individuals and Firms

The European Union has expanded its sanctions list to include additional individuals and entities linked to Russia's military-industrial complex, the so-called shadow fleet and activities deemed to constitute political interference. A total of 34 individuals and 47 entities have been added to the sanctions list.

Among those newly sanctioned are Tahir Garayev, founder of Coral Energy, later renamed 2Rivers Group, and Konstantin Rogach. According to the European Union, Garayev facilitated the transport and export of Russian oil through a network of companies, including shipments from the sanctioned oil producer Rosneft.

Brussels said Rogach was responsible for providing insurance coverage and administrative services for vessels transporting Russian oil and petroleum products. The EU also imposed sanctions on 15 individuals in connection with the death of opposition politician Alexei Navalny, including Russian judges and prosecutors.

The list further includes individuals accused of spreading disinformation that supports or justifies Russia's war against Ukraine. Among them are journalists, a social media influencer and Georgy Shevkunov, a bishop of the Russian Orthodox Church.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said member states are also discussing a new package of sanctions against Russia. According to Kallas, the measures imposed so far have inflicted damage on the Russian economy amounting to between €1tn and €1.3tn ($1.1tn-$1.5tn).

(Reuters, Max)