Bulgaria opposes part of new EU sanctions package over Patriarch Kirill

Bulgaria has stated its objection to the European Union's 21st sanctions package against Russia over plans to include Patriarch Kirill, the head of the Russian Orthodox Church, on the sanctions list.

Source: European Pravda, citing two EU diplomats familiar with the discussions who spoke on condition of anonymity

Details: The new 21st EU sanctions package against Russia was discussed by EU ambassadors last week, during which Bulgaria expressed disagreement with adding Patriarch Kirill to the sanctions list, viewing it as interference in religious affairs.

The sources of European Pravda say that several countries, including Bulgaria, also raised concerns about proposed sanctions in the energy sector (the 21st package includes a proposal to freeze the Russian oil price cap to prevent it from rising).

The Committee of Permanent Representatives (COREPER) is scheduled to meet again on 17 June at 16:30 Kyiv time to continue discussions on the European Commission's proposed 21st sanctions package against Russia.

Background:

• On 9 June, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen presented the new 21st EU sanctions package against Russia.
• It includes, among other measures, a proposal to ban entry into the EU for former Russian combatants who fought against Ukraine.
• The 21st sanctions package must now be unanimously approved by the Council of the EU.
• European Pravda sources reported that the package is expected to be adopted by 15 July, ahead of the deadline for updating the Russian oil price cap.

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