On 13 July 2026, EU foreign affairs ministers adopted new restrictive measures targeting Russian cyber-attacks, human rights violations against Ukrainian prisoners of war, and abusive surveillance in Russia, while also launching an EU Partnership Mission in Armenia and strengthening sanctions on Sudan. The decisions were taken during the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) meeting in Brussels, chaired by High Representative Kaja Kallas.
The Council listed nine individuals and four entities for cyber-attacks with significant effects constituting an external threat to EU member states. Additionally, 15 individuals and one entity were sanctioned for serious human rights violations against Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilian detainees in occupied regions and Russia. Four individuals and five entities were listed for human rights violations in Russia, including repression of civil society and use of new technologies to restrict freedom of expression. These sanctions build on previous EU measures against Russia since the start of the war in February 2022.
Ministers also discussed Ukraine's energy preparedness for the upcoming winter, including urgent air defence support and protection of critical energy infrastructure. The Council adopted two assistance measures under the European Peace Facility: €120 million for Moldova's air defence capabilities and €15 million for the Philippines' maritime security — the first-ever EPF measure for the Philippines.
The Council launched the EU Partnership Mission in Armenia (EUPM Armenia) under the Common Security and Defence Policy to enhance the country's resilience against hybrid threats. On Sudan, the Council strengthened sanctions by targeting gold mining and exploitation to curb conflict financing. A new EU Special Representative for Kosovo was appointed, and mandates for the Special Representatives for Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Horn of Africa were extended.
On the Black Sea, the Council reviewed the implementation of the strategic approach launched a year earlier, noting 65 projects worth around €200 million and a connectivity agenda worth billions. Ministers discussed the Middle East, reiterating concern over Gaza's humanitarian situation and support for the two-state solution, while exchanging views on possible trade measures against settlement products. On Lebanon, ministers welcomed the framework agreement ending hostilities between Israel and Lebanon and reaffirmed support for Lebanon's sovereignty, including a future CSDP mission.
The Council also approved conclusions on EU priorities at the UN for the 81st session of the General Assembly and was informed on the appointment of the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina.