Russia recalls ambassador as Armenia deepens EU ties before elections
Russia has recalled its ambassador to Armenia for consultations, citing Yerevan's growing rapprochement with the European Union. The move is seen as t...
The EU adopted its 16th sanctions package against Russia, targeting its economy, shadow fleet, and military sector. New measures restrict financial networks, trade, and media, while expanding energy sanctions.
The EU adopted its 16th sanctions package against Russia on Monday, targeting key sectors of its economy and individuals linked to the war in Ukraine. As the conflict enters its fourth year, EU officials aim to weaken Moscow’s military capabilities.
The new measures affect Russia’s shadow fleet, financial networks, and military-industrial complex. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated that each sanction package reduces the Kremlin’s war funds. The EU Council sanctioned 83 individuals and entities undermining Ukraine’s territorial integrity and expanded criteria to target ships evading oil sanctions, now restricting 153 vessels.
For the first time, the EU imposed a transaction ban on foreign financial institutions using Russia’s SPFS messaging system and expanded restrictions on 13 regional banks. Additionally, 53 entities supplying Russia’s military sector were sanctioned.
New trade restrictions cover drone technology, chemicals, and software for weapons development. Limits were placed on industrial exports and Russian aluminum imports.
The EU also revoked broadcasting licenses for eight Russian media outlets accused of spreading Kremlin propaganda and tightened restrictions on Russian ports, transport, and aviation.
Energy sanctions were extended, banning software for oil and gas exploration and prohibiting temporary storage of Russian crude in the EU. EU leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Ukraine, with Kallas emphasizing sanctions as a crucial tool in pressuring Moscow.
A group of Azerbaijani civil society organisations has called for increased scrutiny of Swiss building materials giant Holcim, citing court rulings and ongoing investigations linked to its subsidiary Lafarge's activities during the Syrian conflict.
The World Health Organization (WHO) says ongoing conflict, funding pressures and international travel restrictions are complicating efforts to contain a fast-growing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Thai rescuers say five people have been pulled alive from a flooded cave in remote Laos, where seven villagers became trapped after heavy rain cut off access underground.
Russia and Kazakhstan signed 15 agreements during President Vladimir Putin’s state visit to Astana on Thursday (28 May), including deals on Kazakhstan’s first nuclear power plant and expanded oil cooperation with Russia.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has urged Asian allies to increase military spending, warning of growing concern over China’s rapid military expansion and wider activities in the region.
Thai rescuers say five people have been pulled alive from a flooded cave in remote Laos, where seven villagers became trapped after heavy rain cut off access underground.
Three Latvian climbers have died after falling on Mount McKinley in Alaska’s Denali National Park and Preserve, authorities and a Latvian climbing organisation have said
Start your day informed with the AnewZ Morning Brief. Here are the top stories for 30 May, covering the latest developments you need to know.
Voting has begun in Malta’s parliamentary election, with opinion polls suggesting the ruling Labour Party is on course to win a fourth consecutive term.
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