Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2026
229. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the nature of EU sanctions that apply to those engaged in or contributing to Russian state sponsored media, including a network (details supplied); if such sanctions apply to any Irish citizen; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5617/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe targeted sanctions adopted in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine are the most expansive and hard-hitting sanctions in EU history. Ireland has supported these measures.
Over 2,400 individuals and entities are now subject to EU restrictive measures. An unprecedented range of sectoral measures against Russia have been adopted, including measures targeting the financial, energy, technology, defence, media and transport sectors with a view to limiting Russia’s ability to wage its illegal war in Ukraine and access battlefield goods and technology.
These measures include a broadcasting prohibition relating to a number of Russian media outlets, including the one listed which have been instrumental in preparing and supporting Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Within the EU, it is prohibited to broadcast, enable or otherwise facilitate the broadcast of a range of sanctioned outlets.
In view of Russia’s hybrid operations in Europe, on 8 October 2024, the European Council established a new framework of targeted sanctions against persons and entities engaged in destabilising activities including information manipulation and disinformation. These restrictive measures consist of a travel ban to the EU for designated individuals and an asset freeze applying to both designated individuals and entities.
EU sanctions Regulations have direct effect in Irish law, meaning that they must be complied with in the same way as domestic Irish legislation.
