Answer given by Ms McGuinness on behalf of the European Commission

Since February 2022, the Council has adopted eight packages of comprehensive restrictive measures (sanctions) concerning Russia, tailored to the specific objectives of weakening Russia’s ability to finance its military aggression against Ukraine, and impose economic and political costs on Russia’s political elite responsible for or benefitting therefrom. In general terms, EU sanctions must be proportionate to their objectives.

The sanctions in force significantly restrict the ability of EU citizens and companies to engage in business in and with Russia in several sectors such as trade, energy, finance, transport and media.

They include, for instance, a ban on the provision of certain consulting and advisory services to Russia, and a ban on holding any posts in the governing bodies of certain Russian state-owned entities. Moreover, the sanctions include targeted financial measures against more than 100 entities and 1200 individuals.

EU sanctions remain under constant review, on the basis of developments on the ground. Any decision to expand sanctions is taken by unanimity by Member States in the Council of the EU. The process of preparing, discussing and adopting such decisions in the Council is confidential.

For the time being, the Commission has not planned any communication strategy as described by the Honourable Members.