Patriarch Kirill, head of the Russian Orthodox Church, has been included in the European Union’s latest proposed sanctions package against Russia, according to three diplomats cited by Euronews.
The move marks a renewed attempt by the EU to blacklist Kirill after a previous effort in 2022 was blocked by Hungary, then led by Viktor Orbán, which argued the measure raised concerns over religious freedom.
Individual EU sanctions typically involve asset freezes and travel bans, although names are not officially disclosed until all 27 member states reach agreement.
Kirill, a controversial figure with both religious and political influence, has been accused of promoting narratives used to justify Russia’s war in Ukraine. Under his leadership, the Russian Orthodox Church approved a text describing the invasion as a “Holy War” and calling for the elimination of Ukrainian independence.
The issue was revisited after Hungary signalled a change in position under new leadership, allowing Kirill’s name to be reintroduced into the draft measures.
However, approval is not guaranteed, as unanimous support is required and names are sometimes removed during negotiations to secure agreement.
The EU aims to finalise its 21st sanctions package by 15 July, ahead of a scheduled review of the Russian oil price cap.
via Euronews
