Brussels, (Unib Rashid) __ The European Union has announced its 19th package of sanctions against Russia, targeting the country’s energy sector—particularly gas—along with third-country banks and cryptocurrency service providers.

According to a statement from the European Council, this latest and most extensive sanctions package adds 69 new individuals and entities to the EU’s blacklist. The measures aim at key sectors fueling Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, including energy, finance, and the military-industrial complex.

The Council also said it is tightening controls on the movement of Russian diplomats within the EU and taking additional steps against those responsible for the abduction of Ukrainian children.

As part of the same package, the EU has also imposed new restrictions on Belarus for its continued support of Russia’s war efforts.

The European Council stated that this decision comes in response to Russia’s escalating aggression against Ukraine, particularly its recent brutal military campaign deliberately targeting civilian infrastructure—including energy, water, and healthcare facilities. These attacks, the Council said, have caused immense suffering among civilians and further demonstrate Russia’s unwillingness to pursue peace.