Kallas on the 19th Package of Sanctions Against Russia

The new, 19th package of EU sanctions against Russia targets key sectors supporting Russia's aggression against Ukraine. This was stated by the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, during the presentation of the package.

"Our sanctions are painful. They have a significant impact on Russian state finances and economic growth. For the Kremlin, any source of income that allows it to continue its aggression is a target," she noted.

According to the head of European diplomacy, the new package includes proposals for a complete ban on transactions by Russian banks and financial institutions, including those operating in third countries.

"We also propose to expand sanctions against major economic operators involved in circumventing the restrictions, generating revenues, and supporting the Russian military-industrial sector, as well as against the Russian credit card system and accelerated payment systems," Kallas said.

The measures include a ban on investments in Russia's special economic zones related to the war, as well as sanctions against Chinese organizations supporting the Russian military-industrial sector.