EU renews sanctions against Russia over Crimea annexation

ISTANBUL

The European Commission renewed sanctions on Monday in response to Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol until June 23, 2026.

Under the sanctions, EU countries cannot import products from Crimea and Sevastopol, according to a statement by the commission.

The sanctions also restrict the activities of EU citizens and companies in Crimea and Sevastopol.

European companies cannot provide investment and financial services to Crimea and Sevastopol.

Various products and technologies for use in the transportation, telecommunications, and energy sectors are also banned.

In particular, the provision of technology and technical assistance for the exploration, extraction, and production of oil, natural gas, and minerals is also prohibited.

"The EU does not recognize and continues to condemn the illegal annexation of Crimea and Sevastopol by the Russian Federation as a violation of international law," the statement said.

Russia illegally annexed the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol in March 2014.

Following the annexation of Crimea by Russia and the unrest in eastern Ukraine at the time, the EU, the US, and some other countries imposed sanctions on Russia.