The European Union's Belgian presidency announced on social media site X that the EU had approved its 13th set of sanctions on Russia on Wednesday, reiterating earlier information Reuters had received from sources.&nbsp;

The Belgian presidency announced that "EU ambassadors have reached a principle agreement on the 13th package of sanctions in the context of Russia's aggression against Ukraine," referring to it as "one of the biggest adopted by the EU."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-eu-official-claims-russia-is-now-at-war-with-nato-and-the-west-556543">EU official says ‘Russia has changed ‘special operation’ into war with NATO and West’</a>

There won't be any new sectoral measures in the new package, but almost all&nbsp;businesses and individuals will be added to the list. On February 24, the second anniversary of the beginning of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the package will be formally authorised.

The listings primarily target entities and individuals affiliated with Russia's military industrial complex, as well as those implicated in the trafficking and abduction of Ukrainian children. Additionally, a North Korean and a Belarusian firm have been included in the listings.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ukraine-war-eu-mulling-fresh-sanctions-on-russia-653818" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ukraine-war-eu-mulling-fresh-sanctions-on-russia-653818&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjIl6z-sbyEAxVnTWwGHd6RBZsQFnoECAQQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0dyo9ElHExf9VFYsVw18YM" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ukraine-war-eu-mulling-fresh-sanctions-on-russia-653818" target="_blank">Ukraine War:&nbsp;EU&nbsp;mulling fresh sanctions on&nbsp;Russia</a>

In March of the previous year, the Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court asserted that Russia had relocated "at least hundreds" of children from orphanages and care facilities in occupied Ukrainian regions, with "many" being put up for adoption. The ICC indicted officials, including President Vladimir Putin, for the abduction of Ukrainian children, classifying it as a war crime. Moscow denies any wrongdoing, contending that it has taken in children from the war zone to ensure their safety. Ukraine asserts that over 4,000 children have been taken by Russia.

The new measures also target the procurement network supporting Russia's military, particularly the supply chain involved in drone manufacturing. Twenty-seven companies, predominantly Russian, along with three mainland Chinese firms and one Hong Kong-based company, have been added to Annex IV, barring European firms from selling dual-use goods to them.

Watch:&nbsp;Fresh EU sanctions on Russia

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The official approval of these measures is scheduled to coincide with the second anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on February 24.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasised the need to continue undermining Putin's war machine, stating, "We are also further cutting Russia’s access to drones."

Ambassadors have extended the current sanctions regime, which lists approximately 2,000 individuals and companies, for an additional six months.

(With inputs from agencies)

The European Union's Belgian presidency announced on social media site X that the EU had approved its 13th set of sanctions on Russia on Wednesday, reiterating earlier information Reuters had received from sources.

The European Union's Belgian presidency announced on social media site X that the EU had approved its 13th set of sanctions on Russia on Wednesday, reiterating earlier information Reuters had received from sources. The Belgian presidency announced that "EU ambassadors have reached a principle agreement on the 13th package of sanctions in the context of Russia's aggression against Ukraine," referring to it as "one of the biggest adopted by the EU." Also read: EU official says ‘Russia has changed ‘special operation’ into war with NATO and West’ There won't be any new sectoral measures in the new package, but almost all businesses and individuals will be added to the list. On February 24, the second anniversary of the beginning of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the package will be formally authorised. The listings primarily target entities and individuals affiliated with Russia's military industrial complex, as well as those implicated in the trafficking and abduction of Ukrainian children. Additionally, a North Korean and a Belarusian firm have been included in the listings. Also read: Ukraine War: EU mulling fresh sanctions on Russia In March of the previous year, the Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court asserted that Russia had relocated "at least hundreds" of children from orphanages and care facilities in occupied Ukrainian regions, with "many" being put up for adoption. The ICC indicted officials, including President Vladimir Putin, for the abduction of Ukrainian children, classifying it as a war crime. Moscow denies any wrongdoing, contending that it has taken in children from the war zone to ensure their safety. Ukraine asserts that over 4,000 children have been taken by Russia. The new measures also target the procurement network supporting Russia's military, particularly the supply chain involved in drone manufacturing. Twenty-seven companies, predominantly Russian, along with three mainland Chinese firms and one Hong Kong-based company, have been added to Annex IV, barring European firms from selling dual-use goods to them. Watch: Fresh EU sanctions on Russia × The official approval of these measures is scheduled to coincide with the second anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on February 24. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasised the need to continue undermining Putin's war machine, stating, "We are also further cutting Russia’s access to drones." Ambassadors have extended the current sanctions regime, which lists approximately 2,000 individuals and companies, for an additional six months. (With inputs from agencies)

European Union gives green light to its 13th sanctions package targeting Russia

Which EU countries have paid in Roubles for Russia's gas supply?

According to a report, over hundred private jets belonging to Russian oligarchs are stuck in Dubai's airports ever since the sanctions were imposed by the Western government against Putin's regime.

A report by Wall Street Journal said the jets were accumulated between mid-February to April. Dubai hasn't imposed sanctions on Russia and has kept its air traffic open for Russian planes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-adds-160-russian-oligarchs-senators-to-sanctions-blacklist-460584">Also Read:&nbsp;EU adds 160 Russian oligarchs to sanctions blacklist</a>

Last month UK authorities had impounded a private jet reportedly linked to Russian oligarch Eugene Shvidler. The UK has banned Russian aircraft from entering its airspace and airports.

The UK reportedly took control of a Bombardier Global 6500 jet which belonged to Shvidler. The UK has put stringent rules in place to detain and terminate registration of Russian-linked planes.

Britain had earlier announced a travel ban and assets freeze of billionaire businessman Alisher Usmanov and former Russian deputy prime minister Igor Shuvalov.

Watch:&nbsp;&nbsp;Is UAE a safe haven for oligarchs?

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Shvidler's jet had reportedly arrived from New Jersey in US and was due to fly to Dubai. The jet is reportedly registered with a Luxembourg company.

Last week the US had imposed further sanctions on Russian oligarchs including their family members. The ban included targeted the Russian ultra-rich from transferring their assets to their family members.

Also Read:

America has imposed travel ban on over 50 Russian oligarchs including their families and close associates.&nbsp;

Biden attacked Putin's regime saying the "oligarchs were lining their pockets with the Russian people's money while the Ukrainian people are hiding in subways from missiles."

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

According to a report, over hundred private jets belonging to Russian oligarchs are stuck in Dubai's airports ever since the sanctions were imposed by the Western government against Putin's regime.

According to a report, over hundred private jets belonging to Russian oligarchs are stuck in Dubai's airports ever since the sanctions were imposed by the Western government against Putin's regime. A report by Wall Street Journal said the jets were accumulated between mid-February to April. Dubai hasn't imposed sanctions on Russia and has kept its air traffic open for Russian planes. Also Read: EU adds 160 Russian oligarchs to sanctions blacklist Last month UK authorities had impounded a private jet reportedly linked to Russian oligarch Eugene Shvidler. The UK has banned Russian aircraft from entering its airspace and airports. The UK reportedly took control of a Bombardier Global 6500 jet which belonged to Shvidler. The UK has put stringent rules in place to detain and terminate registration of Russian-linked planes. Britain had earlier announced a travel ban and assets freeze of billionaire businessman Alisher Usmanov and former Russian deputy prime minister Igor Shuvalov. Watch: Is UAE a safe haven for oligarchs? Shvidler's jet had reportedly arrived from New Jersey in US and was due to fly to Dubai. The jet is reportedly registered with a Luxembourg company. Last week the US had imposed further sanctions on Russian oligarchs including their family members. The ban included targeted the Russian ultra-rich from transferring their assets to their family members. Also Read: America has imposed travel ban on over 50 Russian oligarchs including their families and close associates. Biden attacked Putin's regime saying the "oligarchs were lining their pockets with the Russian people's money while the Ukrainian people are hiding in subways from missiles." (With inputs from Agencies)

Over 100 private jets linked to Russian oligarchs stuck in Dubai: Report

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

According to reports, China's Sinopec has suspended investment and a gas marketing venture in Russia amid increasing threat of Western sanctions.

Sinopec is Asia's largest oil refiner. The company had reportedly struck a deal with Russia in east Siberia’s Amur region. The venture had started two years ago and was expected to start in 2024.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/history-of-urban-warfare-why-russia-will-find-it-difficult-to-conquer-kyiv-465932">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;&nbsp;History of urban warfare &amp; why Russia will find it difficult to conquer Kyiv</a>

Ma Yongsheng, Sinopec's chairman had reportedly said earlier that "operations in Russia are going smoothly". President Xi's regime has so far refused to condemn the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Reuters reported that China's foreign ministry had summoned officials from energy companies to review their business ties with Russian partners. The foreign ministry said it had the "right to carry out normal economic and trade cooperation across the world".

Watch:&nbsp;Zelensky calls on NATO to support Kyiv

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Several companies have exited Russia ever since President Putin announced the "special military operation" against Ukraine on February 24.

Western countries including EU nations have come down heavily against Russian oligarchs. However, Turkey's foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said Russia's oligarchs can continue to do business in the country as long as they respect international law.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-could-russian-president-vladimir-putin-be-prosecuted-for-war-crimes-in-ukraine-465719">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;How could Russian President Vladimir Putin be prosecuted for war crimes in Ukraine?</a>

EU nations and the US have specifically targeted Russian oligarchs believed to be close to President Putin while imposing unprecedented measures against the high profile billionaires as several nations have seized yachts owned by Russia's richest.

The sanctions issue has become a major issue as President Macron last week dismissed President Putin's demand for Europe to pay for gas in rubles. Macron declared that "it is therefore not possible today to do what is requested", while adding, "it is not contractual" as he accused Russia of trying to "circumvent" EU sanctions.

Germany which is a major buyer of Russian gas also denounced the move as Europe scrambles to reduce dependence on Russian gas.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. According to reports, China's Sinopec has suspended investment and a gas marketing venture in Russia amid increasing threat of Western sanctions. Sinopec is Asia's largest oil refiner. The company had reportedly struck a deal with Russia in east Siberia’s Amur region. The venture had started two years ago and was expected to start in 2024. Also Read in Pics: History of urban warfare & why Russia will find it difficult to conquer Kyiv Ma Yongsheng, Sinopec's chairman had reportedly said earlier that "operations in Russia are going smoothly". President Xi's regime has so far refused to condemn the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Reuters reported that China's foreign ministry had summoned officials from energy companies to review their business ties with Russian partners. The foreign ministry said it had the "right to carry out normal economic and trade cooperation across the world". Watch: Zelensky calls on NATO to support Kyiv Several companies have exited Russia ever since President Putin announced the "special military operation" against Ukraine on February 24. Western countries including EU nations have come down heavily against Russian oligarchs. However, Turkey's foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said Russia's oligarchs can continue to do business in the country as long as they respect international law. Also Read in Pics: How could Russian President Vladimir Putin be prosecuted for war crimes in Ukraine? EU nations and the US have specifically targeted Russian oligarchs believed to be close to President Putin while imposing unprecedented measures against the high profile billionaires as several nations have seized yachts owned by Russia's richest. The sanctions issue has become a major issue as President Macron last week dismissed President Putin's demand for Europe to pay for gas in rubles. Macron declared that "it is therefore not possible today to do what is requested", while adding, "it is not contractual" as he accused Russia of trying to "circumvent" EU sanctions. Germany which is a major buyer of Russian gas also denounced the move as Europe scrambles to reduce dependence on Russian gas. (With inputs from Agencies)

China's Sinopec suspends talks with Russian companies amid sanctions row

After reports claimed a Russian billionaire's luxury yacht was seized by German authorities, reports said French officials have immobilized a yacht owned by a company linked to Russia's Rosneft Chief Executive Officer Igor Sechin amid sanctions imposed by the European Union against Russians.

The yacht was reportedly seized by French customs officials near Marseille.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-russias-sarmat-intercontinental-ballistic-missile-can-change-battlefield-dynamic-458549">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;How Russia's Sarmat ICBM&nbsp;can change battlefield dynamic</a>

French finance minister Bruno Le Marie was quick&nbsp;to thank French customs officials after it was prevented from leaving the Mediterranean port. Earlier reports said German authorities had seized a super luxury yacht owned by Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov.

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French customs seize yacht of Igor Sechin, Rosneft boss, former KGB agent and Russian deputy prime minister, the closest fo close Putin cronies <a href="https://t.co/XQgx6sG05W">pic.twitter.com/XQgx6sG05W</a>
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Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

The yacht was reportedly taken to Hamburg after it had undergone refitting at a different location. The European Union imposed sanctions on Russian tycoons and prominent people after&nbsp;Russia's invasion against Ukraine.

Watch:&nbsp;‘Go home’: Ukrainians yell at armed Russian soldiers invasion

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The French government had said earlier that it was drawing up a list of assets of ultra-rich Russians&nbsp;with some billionaires believed to be close to Putin's regime.

Rosneft chief Igor Sechin is also reportedly also close to Putin. In another related development, well known Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich who owned the Chelsea football team in England announced that he would be selling the Premier League club. Abramovich declared that the money from the deal would be sent to victims of the Ukraine war.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-unleashes-turkeys-bayraktar-tb2-drones-on-russia-is-it-a-gamechanger-458271">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Ukraine unleashes Turkey's Bayraktar TB2 drones on Russia</a>

The United States and EU announced a slew of sanctions against Russia after President Putin declared on February 24 that his forces had begun conducting military operations in neighbouring Ukraine.

The US and EU sanctions have targeted Russia's financial and airline sector even as US President said targeting Russian oil was "not off the table".

(With inputs from Agencies)

After reports claimed a Russian billionaire's luxury yacht was seized by German authorities, reports said French officials have immobilized a yacht owned by a company linked to Russia's Rosneft Chief Executive Officer Igor Sechin amid sanctions imposed by the European Union against Russians.

After reports claimed a Russian billionaire's luxury yacht was seized by German authorities, reports said French officials have immobilized a yacht owned by a company linked to Russia's Rosneft Chief Executive Officer Igor Sechin amid sanctions imposed by the European Union against Russians. The yacht was reportedly seized by French customs officials near Marseille. Also Read in Pics: How Russia's Sarmat ICBM can change battlefield dynamic French finance minister Bruno Le Marie was quick to thank French customs officials after it was prevented from leaving the Mediterranean port. Earlier reports said German authorities had seized a super luxury yacht owned by Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov. French customs seize yacht of Igor Sechin, Rosneft boss, former KGB agent and Russian deputy prime minister, the closest fo close Putin cronies pic.twitter.com/XQgx6sG05W — Pierre Briançon (@pierrebri) March 3, 2022 × Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. The yacht was reportedly taken to Hamburg after it had undergone refitting at a different location. The European Union imposed sanctions on Russian tycoons and prominent people after Russia's invasion against Ukraine. Watch: ‘Go home’: Ukrainians yell at armed Russian soldiers invasion The French government had said earlier that it was drawing up a list of assets of ultra-rich Russians with some billionaires believed to be close to Putin's regime. Rosneft chief Igor Sechin is also reportedly also close to Putin. In another related development, well known Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich who owned the Chelsea football team in England announced that he would be selling the Premier League club. Abramovich declared that the money from the deal would be sent to victims of the Ukraine war. Also Read in Pics: Ukraine unleashes Turkey's Bayraktar TB2 drones on Russia The United States and EU announced a slew of sanctions against Russia after President Putin declared on February 24 that his forces had begun conducting military operations in neighbouring Ukraine. The US and EU sanctions have targeted Russia's financial and airline sector even as US President said targeting Russian oil was "not off the table". (With inputs from Agencies)

Now, France targets superyacht linked to Russia's Rosneft chief