Five Russian firms targeted over drone components used against Ukraine

The sanctions were imposed in direct response to Russia’s large-scale attacks on Kyiv overnight on July 1 and July 5 and its deliberate strikes on civilian infrastructure, the EU said.

All five companies are part of the ABS Electro group, which manufactures electronic and radio-electronic components for Shahed- and Geran-type drones. The components help make Russian drones more resistant to electronic warfare systems.

Several of the sanctioned companies also produce automated control systems for the energy sector, generating revenue for the Russian government.

The EU also sanctioned Irina Kharisova, chair of the ABS Electro group’s board of directors and director of several companies within the group.

The EU is still working to approve its 21st sanctions package against Russia. Bulgaria said on July 13 that it would support the package after Russian Orthodox Church Patriarch Kirill and Russian oligarch Vagit Alekperov were removed from the list.

EU ambassadors failed to agree on the new measures on July 13 and July 14. The Committee of Permanent Representatives, or Coreper, also failed to approve the 21st sanctions package on July 15.

The EU decided to freeze the price cap on Russian oil until July 23 as discussions continued.

The next attempt to approve the EU’s 21st sanctions package against Russia is scheduled for July 22.