EU and UK impose sanctions on Russia over alleged cyberattacks

The European Union and the United Kingdom have imposed coordinated sanctions on Russian individuals and entities, citing involvement in widespread cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure and government institutions. Germany summoned the Russian ambassador to formally protest recent cyberattacks on its public agencies, threatening further measures. EU High Representative Kaja Kallas stated that the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB), particularly its 'Center 16' unit, has been conducting espionage and sabotage operations across Europe since 2010. Specific incidents mentioned include attempts to disrupt power grids in Poland, affecting 500,000 people during winter, and long-term surveillance of strategic institutions in France. Affected nations also include Cyprus, the Netherlands, Austria, Slovakia, Romania, and Finland. While the EU sanctioned 9 to 13 entities and individuals depending on the reporting source, the UK announced measures against 24 entities. Russia has consistently denied these allegations regarding its state involvement in cyber espionage activities.