OREANDA-NEWS  European countries may begin to impose sanctions against relatives of entrepreneurs from Russia who have already been sanctioned. The corresponding amendment to the document regulating the introduction of restrictions was made by the Council of the European Union (EU), RIA Novosti writes.

Now the EU can add to the sanctions lists not only individuals who the bloc considers responsible for supporting "actions against the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine," but also against their close relatives. According to the document, the innovation concerns "influential women and men-businessmen operating in Russia, as well as close members of their families or other individuals who benefit."

Currently, 1,473 individuals and 207 organizations from Russia are under EU sanctions. The restrictions include the freezing of assets, including bank accounts, as well as a ban on travel to the European Union.

EU countries plan to discuss new restrictions on Russia on June 7. Representatives of the countries of the association will touch upon the introduction of economic and personal restrictions in order to prepare for approval.