EU Expands Sanctions Following Evidence of Torture and Death of Ukrainian Journalist
Brussels – The European Union has extended sanctions against Russia for the second time this year, targeting 28 individuals implicated in severe human rights abuses and the suppression of democratic opposition, according to Ukrainska pravda. The move comes amid mounting evidence of atrocities committed against detainees, including the brutal death of Ukrainian investigative journalist Viktoria Roshchiyova.
Roshchiyova, who would have turned 29 this year, disappeared in August 2023 while investigating and documenting instances of violence against civilians following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Confirmation of her death in Russian custody arrived in October 2024, with her remains returned to Ukraine exhibiting horrific signs of torture. An examination revealed missing organs – including the trachea, eyes, and brain – and also electrical burns and extensive bruising.
The sanctions also address the targeting of activists linked to Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny and his foundation, which Roshchiyova supported. Prior to her disappearance, Roshchiyova was briefly arrested in 2023 and released after being coerced into stating Russian forces had saved her life.She never returned after a subsequent detention.
At least 15 detainees are reported to have died as a result of ill-treatment, according to Ukrainian justice. The EU’s initial sanctions were imposed in May of this year, and this latest expansion underscores the bloc’s commitment to holding those responsible for human rights violations accountable.
