EU to lift some sanctions against Syria
The EU has stood with the Syrian people throughout the last 14 years, engaging in the search for a political solution and leading financial assistance. The EU also adopted sanctions against Assad’s criminal regime.
Following the fall of the Assad regime, the EU has adopted a gradual and reversible approach in order to support Syria’s transition and economic recovery. In February, the EU suspended some of its economic sanctions.
Finland and Sweden implement EU sanctions directive
Finland and Sweden are in the process of implementing EU Directive 2024/1226, which harmonizes sanctions enforcement and criminal penalties for violating EU restrictive measures. This directive requires member states to incorporate definitions and penalties for sanctions violations into their national laws.
EU’s 17th sanctions package targets Russia
The new sanctions package primarily targets Russia’s aging fleet of tankers used to circumvent Western oil restrictions, according to Euronews. The agreement reportedly adds 189 vessels to the EU’s blacklist, bringing the total number of targeted ships to over 350, all of which are denied access to EU ports and services.
The package also blacklists 75 individuals and companies involved in Russia’s military-industrial complex and over 30 firms suspected of supplying Moscow with dual-use goods, including companies in Kazakhstan, Serbia, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Vietnam and the United Arab Emirates. Additionally, it bans exports of EU-made chemicals that can be used to produce missiles. Source: European Commission
Switzerland: Federal Council implements 16th EU sanctions package against Russia
The Federal Council decided on 14 May 2025 that Switzerland will adopt the measures in the European Union’s 16th package of sanctions against Russia, with effect from 15 May 2025. 48 individuals, 35 entities and 74 vessels were already added to the Swiss sanctions list against Russia on 4 March. The Federal Council is also extending Swiss sanctions against Belarus. For more information, please refer the portal of Swiss Government