Moscow: Russia has sharply criticized the European Union’s decision to approve its 19th sanctions package, calling it a politically driven and unlawful move that undermines international stability. In a firm response, Moscow announced entry bans on dozens of European representatives.

According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, the blacklist includes law enforcement officials, politicians, and public figures from various EU countries who have supported what Moscow described as “anti-Russian actions.” The list also features officials who advocated for or participated in the illegal seizure of Russian assets abroad.

The Foreign Ministry denounced the EU’s continued sanctions policy as a “violation of international law” and an attempt to pressure sovereign states. “The European Union’s actions weaken the role of the United Nations and cannot influence Russia’s independent policy,” the ministry stated.

Moscow reaffirmed that Russia will continue to defend its national interests and sovereignty, stressing that no amount of Western pressure will alter its strategic course.