European Union leaders on Friday said they are ready to finalise the bloc’s 21st package of punitive measures against Russia following the electoral defeat of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.

EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas announced this on the sidelines of an EU summit in Nicosia.

Ms Kallas said, “Russia could face tougher EU sanctions following the electoral defeat of Orbán, who has repeatedly blocked sanctions in recent years. It sends a very clear signal to Russia that they can’t outwait us.”

Measures that Hungary’s opposition previously blocked are now up for examination. 

“We should also revisit the previous red lines,” Ms Kallas said.

These could include sanctions against further Russian oligarchs and representatives of the Russian Orthodox Church who support the war in Ukraine.

The EU adopted its 20th package of sanctions on Thursday, after Kremlin-friendly Orbán lifted his months-long veto days after losing parliamentary elections at home, heralding the end of his 16-year rule.

The set of measures aims to further reduce Russia’s revenue from gas and oil sales.

In addition, further financial institutions will be cut off from international payment systems, and additional trade restrictions will be imposed. 

(dpa/NAN)