EU extends Crimean sanctions against Russia

brussels - The European Union has prolonged the sanctions against Russia which have been instituted because of the annexation of the Crimea and support for rebels in eastern Ukraine. The punitive measures against 149 individuals and 38 organizations will remain in effect until 15 September. This concerns travel bans and freezing of assets.

'An assessment of the situation did not lead to a change in the sanctioning regime,' the EU said in a statement.

The EU also has economic sanctions against Russia. These were extended by six months in December. A third package of restrictive measures concerns the Crimea and Sebastopol.

The measures consist of import and export prohibitions, restrictions on trade and investments and a ban on offering tourist services.