17 June 2025

Council of the EU Extends Sanctions over Attempted Annexation of Crimea

The Council of the European Union has extended the sanctions imposed in 2014 in response to Russia’s attempted illegal annexation of Crimea and Sevastopol until 23 June 2026. These measures remain part of the broader EU sanctions framework aimed at countering the Kremlin’s aggressive policy and defending Ukraine’s sovereignty.

The sanctions include a ban on the import of goods from Crimea into the EU, restrictions on investment activities such as the purchase of real estate, financing of businesses, and joint ventures in the region. Additionally, tourist services are prohibited, including cruise ship calls to Crimean ports.

The EU has also imposed restrictions on the export of certain goods and technologies related to transport, energy, telecommunications, and the extraction of natural resources. The ban includes the supply of equipment for the oil and gas industries.

In its statement, the European Union reaffirmed that it does not recognize the attempted annexation of Crimea, which violates international law and contradicts the principles of territorial integrity and the inviolability of borders. The EU also emphasized that since 2022, Russia’s aggression has escalated into a full-scale war, and reiterated its unwavering support for Ukraine in its fight for freedom, independence, and internationally recognized borders.