Russia has announced fresh retaliatory measures following the European Union’s latest sanctions targeting Moscow over the war in Ukraine. The 19th sanctions package, approved on October 23, includes actions against 69 individuals and several sectors such as finance, energy, and military industries, which the EU says are supporting Russia’s war effort.

In a statement on Friday, Russia criticised the sanctions as unlawful and a violation of international norms. Moscow revealed that it has expanded its travel ban list to include EU and Western officials, security personnel, and individuals accused of supplying weapons and dual-use equipment to Ukraine. Others on the list include those involved in blocking Russian ships and cargo, as well as officials linked to legal actions against Russian nationals.

Russia has also barred activists, academics, and politicians who support seizing Russian assets abroad or redirecting profits to Ukraine. The Foreign Ministry stressed that the EU’s sanctions will not force Russia to change its policies, vowing to protect its national interests and its citizens.

Russian Ambassador to Belgium, Denis Gonchar, warned the EU against selling frozen Russian assets, estimated at around $224 billion. He said such actions would amount to theft and would trigger a strong response from Moscow. Gonchar added that if the EU proceeds, “solidarity will turn into counting losses.”