EU foreign ministers on 15 June 2026 approved a new batch of sanctions targeting Russia's industrial-military complex, shadow fleet, and hybrid warfare networks, High Representative Kaja Kallas announced at a press conference in Luxembourg. The ministers also adopted listings targeting those destabilising Moldova and discussed next steps on the 21st sanctions package. Kallas stressed that Western sanctions have already cost Russia an estimated €1 to €1.3 trillion.
On the Middle East, Kallas noted that the US-Iran deal to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz marks a potential breakthrough, with the EU ready to contribute economic leverage and nuclear expertise. The EU approved a €100 million assistance package for the Lebanese Armed Forces and is advancing work on a new EU mission in Lebanon. On Gaza and the West Bank, ministers agreed on sanctions against extremist Israeli settlers and Hamas figures last month, but no consensus was reached on sanctioning Minister Ben-Gvir. Many member states called for Commission proposals on trade with illegal settlements; Kallas will ask the Commission to prepare a list of options for possible trade measures, including on rules of origin, ahead of the next Foreign Affairs Council.
On China, ministers focused on foreign and security aspects, noting Beijing's role as a decisive enabler of Russia's war. The EU sanctioned several Chinese entities and verified reports that the Chinese military has been training Russian personnel. Ministers discussed countering Chinese disinformation and strengthening European defence supply chains, with unity on defending European interests.
On Ukraine, Kallas condemned overnight Russian strikes that killed civilians and damaged Kyiv's historical cathedral, calling them a direct assault on Ukraine's heritage. She reiterated that Russia has no intention of ending the war and that the EU must stay the course. Later on 15 June, Ukraine and Moldova will open the first chapters of EU accession negotiations, a milestone Kallas said makes Europe stronger.
On Armenia, ministers discussed strengthening resilience after last week's elections, with the EU working on a major economic support package and a new Partnership Mission to address cyber-attacks and illicit financial flows.
In the Q&A session, Kallas expressed regret that Russian singer Anna Netrebko was performing in Luxembourg on the same day, arguing that Russia's bombing of cultural heritage sites means no red carpet should be rolled out for Russian artists. On the proposed Schengen ban for Russian combatants, she noted the Commission's proposal is on the table and called it a security issue for Europe. On the European Peace Facility for Ukraine, a compromise has been tabled to unblock the nearly three-year stalemate.