EU imposes sanctions against Russians involved in torturing Ukrainian journalist Viktoriia Roshchyna

On Thursday, the Council of the European Union imposed sanctions against 10 individuals involved in human rights violations in Russia, including the torturing of civilian hostages and repression of the opposition.

Source: European Pravda, citing a press release by the Council of the EU

Details: The new EU sanctions target senior officials of the Main Directorate of the Russian Federal Penitentiary Service in Rostov Oblast, who were involved in the torture of prisoners, including Ukrainian POWs.

Quote: "At least 15 detainees have died as a result of ill-treatment, including Ukrainian investigative journalist Vicktoriia Volodymyrivna Roshchyna."

Details: The new EU sanctions also target Russian judges involved in the prosecution of activist Alexei Gorinov, who was sentenced to three years in prison for speaking out against Russia's war in Ukraine.

The Council of the EU also imposed sanctions against individuals involved in politically motivated persecution of journalists and activists connected to Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny and his foundation.

Asset freezes are placed on individuals listed, and EU citizens and companies are prohibited from providing funds to them. An entry ban is imposed on individuals, making it impossible for them to enter or transit through the EU territory.

Background:

• In March 2024, the Council established a new system of restrictive measures to punish those who violate serious human rights, repress civil society, and oppose democratic opposition.
• In May 2025, the EU sanctioned 28 people who committed significant human rights violations, repression against the democratic opposition, and activities that seriously undermined the rule of law in Russia.
• Jean-Noël Barrot, the French Foreign Minister, stated that the EU intends to complete the 20th package of sanctions against Russia by the end of 2025.

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