▲ Strait of Hormuz
The European Union (EU) has decided to impose sanctions on Iranian individuals and entities responsible for the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy shipping route.
Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, announced the decision during a press conference held while attending an EU defense ministers' meeting in Nicosia, Cyprus, on June 8 (local time). "We have imposed sanctions on Iranian individuals and entities for threatening the freedom of maritime navigation," she stated.
Specific details regarding the sanctions were not disclosed.
Since late February of this year, shortly after coming under attack by the United States and Israel, Iran has blockaded the Strait of Hormuz and has been using it as leverage in ceasefire negotiations.
Regarding the 90 billion euro (approximately 156 trillion won) loan for Ukraine, Kallas said, "The first 5.9 billion euros (approximately 10 trillion won) are scheduled to be disbursed this month," adding that "it will be focused on the Ukrainian drone sector."
The European Commission announced on the same day that it had disbursed approximately 2.9 billion euros (approximately 5 trillion won) to support Ukraine's finances.
When asked about the possibility of negotiations with Russia, she said, "I don't feel we are at that stage yet."
She added, "Strategic patience is also necessary to push Russia into a situation where it truly engages in negotiations."
Kallas had previously expressed caution, labeling Russian President Vladimir Putin's suggestion of discussing security architecture with Europe as a "trap" set by Russia.
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.