EU sanctions additional 16 individuals and seven entities over deportation of Ukrainian children

According to the EU, the sanctions target persons and institutions involved in the systematic, unlawful deportation, forced transfer of Ukrainian children, the so-called militarised “re-education”, and unlawful adoption practices. Those listed include Russian officials and politicians, children’s centres, youth organisations, and other structures facilitating the integration of Ukrainian children into the Russian system.

According to information provided by the EU, since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia has deported and forcibly transferred nearly 20,500 Ukrainian children. These actions constitute serious violations of international law and children’s fundamental rights, aimed at erasing Ukrainian identity and threatening the preservation of future generations.

Those listed today are subject to an asset freeze, and EU citizens and companies are forbidden from making funds and economic resources available to them. Natural persons are additionally subject to a travel ban that prohibits them from entering or transiting through EU territories.

Notably, these additions to the sanctions list were adopted outside the EU’s broader sanctions package, signalling a more flexible and responsive approach to sanctions adoption.

Learn more about the updated sanctions list.