On June 15, 2026, the European Union announced sanctions against over 80 individuals and entities due to Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Among the sanctioned is Georgiy Shevkunov, also known as Metropolitan Tikhon, a senior figure in the Russian Orthodox Church. The EU accuses him of spreading propaganda to support the invasion.
Often referred to as President Vladimir Putin’s “confessor,” Shevkunov was appointed Metropolitan of Crimea in 2023. In early 2025, the FSB claimed to have foiled a plot to assassinate him, reportedly ordered by Ukrainian interests.
The sanctions target a total of 34 individuals and 47 entities. “We approved another batch of sanctions to apply more pressure on Russia to end the war,” said Kaja Kallas, the EU’s foreign policy chief. She emphasized that these steps aim to undermine Russia’s military capabilities and support networks.
Western sanctions have reportedly cost Russia over $1 trillion. Kallas remarked, “Brick by brick, we are collapsing the foundations of Russia’s war economy.” The measures affect those involved in supplying military equipment, like drones, to Russian forces. Individuals accused of promoting Russian propaganda, such as social media influencer Alexandra Jost, are also targeted. Additionally, the sanctions address funding activities linked to Russian oil exports.
Fifteen individuals allegedly connected to the poisoning of Alexei Navalny are included in the sanctions. They face asset freezes, travel bans, and are prohibited from accessing funds within the EU.
On the same day as the sanctions announcement, Russian missile attacks killed at least 11 people in Ukrainian cities, affecting key infrastructure, including an important Orthodox monastery. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for increased international pressure on Russia, urging action from G7 leaders meeting in France.
Since the invasion in February 2022, the conflict in Ukraine remains Europe’s most severe since World War II, with significant losses of civilian and military lives.