European Union leaders are preparing to advance a new round of sanctions against Russia following recent political changes in Hungary that have eased earlier resistance within the bloc.
The development was announced by the EU’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, during an EU summit held in Nicosia. She indicated that the bloc is now positioned to push forward with its 21st package of restrictive measures.
According to Kallas, Russia may soon face stricter sanctions after Hungary’s outgoing leadership, which had frequently blocked such measures in previous years, was no longer in a position to do so. She noted that this shift sends a strong message that the EU remains committed to sustaining pressure on Moscow.
She added that previously stalled proposals could now be reconsidered, including actions targeting additional Russian business figures and individuals linked to institutions seen as supporting the war in Ukraine.
The EU had already approved its 20th sanctions package a day earlier after Hungary withdrew its long-standing objections following recent political developments at home, marking a significant change in the bloc’s decision-making dynamics.
The latest measures are aimed at further limiting Russia’s income from oil and gas exports, while also tightening financial restrictions by excluding more institutions from international payment systems and expanding trade controls.
Officials say the updated approach reflects a renewed push to maintain coordinated pressure on Russia as the conflict in Ukraine continues.