EU imposes first-ever Russia sanctions over massive strikes on Kyiv
Photo: EU Council meeting in Brussels on July 17 (Getty Images)
The European Union imposed sanctions against Russia for the first time in response to the deadly strike on Kyiv. On July 2 alone, Russia killed 31 people in Kyiv.
EU adopts new sanctions against Russia's military-industrial complex
On July 17, the European Union approved six rounds of restrictions in response to Russia’s massive strikes on Kyiv.
"In view of Russia’s continued and escalating aggression against Ukraine — including its recent deadly strikes on Kyiv during the nights of 1 and 5 July 2026, and its brutal military campaign deliberately targeting civilian infrastructure — the Council today decided to impose restrictive measures on one individual and five entities," the statement reads.
These entities are part of the Russian military-industrial complex and are specifically involved in the production of drones.
All five of the listed organizations are part of the ABS Electro Group of companies:
- ABS ZEiM Automation
- Asset Automation
- VNDIR
- Asset Electro
- Sokol Asset.
The only individual on the list is Irina Kharisova, chair of the board of the ABS Electro group of companies and director of several companies within the group.
The relevant legal acts were published in the Official Journal of the EU.
ABS Electro
The company develops and manufactures electronic and radio-electronic components necessary for waging war using drones.
These companies contribute to the development of systems that enhance the capabilities of Russian Shahed and Geran drones. They also increase the drones’ resistance to electronic warfare measures.
Many companies produce automated control systems for the energy sector, which generates significant revenue for Russia.
Greece does not support the new 21st package of sanctions against Russia. The reason is that a ban on Russian gas exports to third countries could weaken the position of companies in Europe.
On July 15, during a meeting of the EU Committee of Permanent Representatives, no decision was reached on new sanctions against Russia.
