The European Union has extended sanctions against Russia.

The foreign ministers of the European Union member states have endorsed the continuation of sanctions against Russia.

This was reported by the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas.

"Europe is delivering: EU foreign ministers have just agreed to extend sanctions against Russia once again," Kallas wrote.

She added that the sanctions against the Russian Federation will continue to deprive Moscow of funds for financing its full-scale war and emphasized that the aggressor must pay for the damage it inflicts.

The extension of sanctions was at risk due to Hungary's position, as its Prime Minister Viktor Orban initially wanted to wait for the inauguration of the new U.S. president to assess the attitude towards anti-Russian restrictive measures. Since Donald Trump openly threatened the Russians with even greater sanctions if they did not start negotiations to end the war after taking office, Budapest somewhat softened its rhetoric.

It is worth recalling that following the full-scale invasion, the West imposed sanctions aimed at isolating Russia and weakening its economic and military capabilities.

The sanctions encompassed a wide range of measures: from financial restrictions, such as disconnecting Russian banks from the SWIFT system, to bans on the export of high-tech goods, including microchips, aviation equipment, and advanced technologies. Additionally, personal sanctions were introduced against high-ranking officials, oligarchs, and companies linked to Putin's regime.

Background. Earlier, Mind reported that Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha emphasized the need to strengthen sanctions against Russia during his speech at the EU Foreign Ministers' Council on Monday, January 27.