EU to Blacklist Russia for Laundering War Funds, Says Top Diplomat.

EU Moves to Place Russia on Money Laundering Blacklist

According to UATV: The European Union is preparing to add Russia to its financial blacklist for money laundering, targeting funds used to finance the war in Ukraine. This announcement was made by the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell, in Brussels on January 29. Borrell stressed that Russia shows no intent to pursue peace in negotiations, as it continues its attacks on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure.

Borrell noted that ongoing talks in Abu Dhabi cannot be taken seriously, as the Russian delegation consists solely of military officials without a mandate to reach any binding agreements.

"Of course, we see the negotiations in Abu Dhabi, but on the Russian side there are only military personnel who have no mandate to reach any agreements," said Josep Borrell.

Increasing Pressure on Russia and Sustaining Support for Ukraine

Furthermore, Josep Borrell argued for the necessity of increasing pressure on Russia to force it into genuine negotiations.

"I think any way to put pressure on Russia to make it engage in real negotiations is good, and we will move in that direction," stated Josep Borrell.

Simultaneously, the EU is actively discussing energy support for Ukraine during a difficult winter, demonstrating its continued commitment to aiding the country against Russian aggression. This move to blacklist Russia reflects the EU's growing concern over how the war is being funded and represents a significant step in coordinating international pressure on Moscow.

The potential blacklisting underscores the EU's determination to disrupt the financial flows sustaining the conflict. This action aligns with broader Western efforts to isolate Russia economically and diplomatically since its full-scale invasion began in February 2022. Continued support for Ukraine's energy sector highlights the EU's focus on strengthening Kyiv's resilience and stabilizing the wider region amidst ongoing hostilities.