THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 29 thereof,

Having regard to the proposal from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy,

Whereas:

(1) On 31 July 2014, the Council adopted Decision 2014/512/CFSP [Council Decision 2014/512/CFSP of 31 July 2014 concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine (OJ L 229, 31.7.2014, p. 13).].

(2) The Union remains unwavering in its support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

(3) In its conclusions of 9 February 2023, the European Council reiterated its resolute condemnation of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, which constitutes a manifest violation of the UN Charter. The European Council also reiterated that the Union stands ready to continue to reinforce its restrictive measures against Russia and stated that anti-circumvention measures will be reinforced.

(4) In view of the gravity of the situation and in response to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, it is appropriate to introduce further restrictive measures.