EU Extends Russia Sanctions, Signals Easing Measures for Post-Assad Syria

The EU renews sanctions on Russia while adopting a phased approach to lifting restrictions on Syria following Assad's ouster.

The EU has extended its sanctions on Russia for another six months, citing the need to limit Moscow's ability to finance its war in Ukraine.
Hungary, initially threatening a veto, withdrew its opposition after receiving assurances on energy security from the EU.
The sanctions include measures against Russian individuals, companies, and sectors, with frozen assets contributing to Ukraine's recovery fund.
Following the fall of Bashar al-Assad, the EU plans a gradual easing of sanctions on Syria to support reconstruction and encourage democratic reforms.
Concerns remain over Syria's new leadership under the HTS militia, with the EU emphasizing that sanctions could be reinstated if progress stalls.