EU extends Russia sanctions for just one week as talks continue
The European Union has extended individual sanctions against Russia for just one week, until midnight on Sept. 22, giving member states more time to reach agreement on a longer-term extension.
EU ambassadors met again on Sept. 14 to discuss extending sanctions imposed over actions threatening Ukraine’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence.
Member states agreed on the temporary one-week extension to allow more time to consider the proposals, a spokesperson for Ireland’s presidency of the Council of the EU told Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne.
Legal procedures needed for the decision to take effect are being finalized, while consultations among EU member states will continue ahead of further discussions.
The sanctions, which were due to expire on Sept. 15, are normally renewed every six months and require unanimous approval from all EU member states.
They apply to around 2,600 individuals and entities and include asset freezes and a ban on making funds or other economic resources available to those listed. Individuals are also subject to EU travel restrictions.
EU ambassadors had failed to reach agreement on extending the sanctions ahead of the Sept. 15 deadline.