Human rights violations in Russia: EU restrictive measures extended until May 2027

The Council decided today to extend the framework for restrictive measures against those responsible for serious human rights violations and abuses, for the repression of civil society and democratic opposition, and for undermining democracy and the rule of law in Russia for a year, until 28 May 2027

EU restrictive measures currently apply to 72 individuals and one entity.

Individuals and entities listed under the EU sanctions regime are subject to an asset freeze. EU citizens and companies are forbidden from making funds available to them. Individuals are also subject to a travel ban, which prevents them from entering or transiting through EU territories.

The EU remains unwavering in its condemnation of human rights violations and repressions in Russia, and is deeply concerned about the continuing deterioration of the human rights situation in the country, especially in the context of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine.

Background

The Council established a new framework for restrictive measures against those responsible for serious human rights violations or abuses, repression of civil society and democratic opposition, and undermining democracy and the rule of law in Russia in March 2024, as the EU's response to the accelerating and systematic repression in Russia. The new framework has been established following the death of Alexei Navalny.

The regime allows the EU to target also those who provide support for or are involved in the misconduct set out above. Furthermore, it entails trade restrictions on exporting to Russia equipment, which might be used for internal repression and the monitoring or interception of telecommunication.