On 29 January, the European Council announced new sanctions targeting a Russian Safe Internet League agency known for internet censorship, along with key individuals linked to “serious human rights violations.”
The Council’s statement highlighted the role of the Safe Internet League in aiding the Russian government’s censorship practices. The agency, led by chairwoman Ekaterina Mizulina, has been accused of “serious and systematic abuses of freedom of opinion and expression.”
Also included in the sanctions list are three individuals within the Russian judicial system. These individuals are identified as responsible for human rights violations, including the arbitrary arrest and detention of opposition figures and journalists. Among the detained is the opposition activist Vladimir Kara-Murza, who faces a 25-year prison sentence.
The EU’s decision to impose these sanctions is a response to the “continuing deterioration of the human rights situation in Russia,” as stated in the European Council’s announcement.
“Those listed under the sanctions regime are subject to an asset freeze, and the provision of funds or economic resources, directly or indirectly, to them or for their benefit, is prohibited. Additionally, a travel ban to the EU applies to the natural persons listed,” the statement reads.
In a broader context, the European Council condemned Russia’s intensifying restrictions on civil liberties. “The EU strongly condemns the severe expansion of restrictive legislation and systematic repression against civil society and human rights defenders in Russia,” the Council stated, emphasizing the ongoing crackdown on media and political dissent.
Ekaterina Mizulina, the organization’s head, is the daughter of Russian politician Yelena Mizulina. The latter is known for her controversial legislative efforts in Russia and was previously sanctioned by the US and Canada.
In response to the sanctions, Mizulina expressed her unwavering commitment to her country and dismissed the importance of traveling outside Russia. She accused the European Council of supporting detrimental elements and proudly acknowledged continuing her family’s tradition of upholding “traditional Russian values.”
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