On February 20, the European Union (EU) extended for another year sanctions against Russia over its annexation of four regions in Ukraine in 2022.
The decision comes into force from the date of publication. Accordingly, the sanctions will remain in effect until February 24, 2025. In addition, additional sanctions may be imposed and existing measures may be extended.
On September 30, Russian President Vladimir Putin and the leaders of the Donetsk, Lugansk, Kherson and Zaporozhye regions signed an agreement on the annexation of these regions to the Russian Federation. Previously, these regions held referendums on joining the Russian Federation. The results of the referendum were announced by the authorities of these regions, according to which the majority of voters agreed to the annexation.