EU readies new sanctions against Russia – von der Leyen

Von der Leyen made the announcement in Brussels during a press conference following the EU summit, Ukrinform reports.

The new package of sanctions may include measures to help limit the Russian diamond industry and measures to counter third countries' attempts to circumvent European sanctions.

"In particular, we are looking at ways to cut off the revenue that Russia receives from exporting diamonds to Europe and its partners. This will be done in very close coordination with our G7 partners. We will continue to work to ensure that our sanctions that are already in place are properly implemented and effectively enforced," the European Commission President said.

The sanctions package is currently being prepared: the EU is consulting with its member states.

• On October 26, media reported that the G7 countries would announce a mechanism for restricting Russian diamond imports by the end of October, after which the European Union would immediately finalize a proposal for the 12th package of sanctions against Russia.
• An Espreso correspondent reported that the EU leaders' summit will discuss strengthening sanctions against Russia. The next 12th package of sanctions will include Russian diamonds, Russian aluminum and dual-use goods.