EU Leaders Extend Russia Sanctions Until January 31, 2026, Freeze €200 Billion Assets; Slovakia Withholds Support

European Union leaders have agreed to extend existing sanctions against Russia for an additional six months, until January 31, 2026. The decision was confirmed by multiple EU officials and the European Council President António Costa. The sanctions, initially imposed due to Russia's aggression in Ukraine, target key sectors including the economy, finance, energy, and defense. The extension maintains measures such as the freezing of over €200 billion ($234 billion) in Russian central bank assets.

While the EU leaders approved the prolongation of current sanctions, they did not approve the proposed 18th sanctions package, with Slovakia withholding support over concerns related to post-2027 gas supplies. Additionally, the EU summit has instructed the European Commission to prepare a plan for financing the community's military programs by October. The European Commission also supports opening accession talks with Ukraine. The sanctions extension aims to sustain pressure on Moscow amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.