BRUSSELS (CHATNEWSTV) — The European Union on Monday sanctioned 16 individuals and three entities linked to Russian hybrid threats, marking the first use of its new framework targeting destabilizing activities abroad.
“These measures respond to Russia’s malicious actions and blatant disregard for international law and the rules-based order,” the Council of the EU said in a statement.
The sanctions include an asset freeze and travel bans for individuals, alongside restrictions preventing EU entities from funding the designated parties.
Among those listed is GRU Unit 29155, a covert Russian military intelligence cell accused of orchestrating assassinations, bombings, and cyberattacks across Europe. The EU also targeted the Groupe Panafricain pour le Commerce et l’Investissement, a pro-Russian disinformation network in Africa, and its founder Harouna Douamba.
“These actions undermine the stability, security, and independence of nations in Europe and Africa alike,” the Council noted, referencing the group’s influence in the Central African Republic and Burkina Faso.
The sanctions extend to the “Doppelganger” campaign, a Russian-led disinformation effort targeting the EU, U.S., and Ukraine. Sofia Zakharova, a Russian official overseeing digital propaganda, and Nikolai Tupikin, founder of the tech firm GK Struktura, were also named.
Other targets include individuals accused of espionage, such as Vladimir Sergiyenko, implicated in passing classified German intelligence to Russia, and Visa Mizaev, tied to an operation against Germany’s Federal Intelligence Service (BND).
“These sanctions demonstrate the EU’s resolve to counter hybrid threats and protect its sovereignty,” the statement said, echoing conclusions from the European Council in June that highlighted the rising threat of hybrid activities.
The measures come amid heightened concerns over Russia’s influence campaigns and its continued aggression in Ukraine.
Editor: Gabriel Ani
