On October 8, 2024, the Council of the EU announced that it established a new framework of restrictive measures aimed at Russia and its increasing use of “hybrid threats” that pose an increasing threat to the security of the European Union, its Member States and institutions. The new framework will enable the European Union to target individuals entities that engage in a variety of hybrid threats, including efforts to undermine electoral processes and disrupt the functioning of democratic institutions; the use of coordinated disinformation; malicious cyber activities; and other destabilizing actions abroad.
The new framework was based in part on a recent proposal issued by the High Representative and the Council’s conclusions released in May and June of 2024, which acknowledge the ongoing campaign of hybrid activities by Russia and the recent increase of new operations occurring on European soil. The Council reported that designees listed under the new framework will be subject to asset freezes and travel bans in all EU territories, and EU individuals and entities will be prohibited from making funds available to them.
Council of the EU Press Release | Council Conclusions – June 2024 | Council Conclusions – May 2024