The Council of EU Member States decided to extend for one year, until November 12, 2021, the existing restrictive measures for unauthorized drilling activities in the Eastern Mediterranean in response to the actions of Turkey.

According to the decision, the EU will retain the authority to impose targeted restrictive measures against persons or organizations responsible for or involved in unauthorized hydrocarbon drilling in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Sanctions include a travel ban on individuals in the EU and an asset freeze for individuals and entities. In addition, EU citizens and businesses are prohibited from providing funds to these individuals. Two individuals are currently subject to sanctions.

Recall that the sanctions regime against illegal drilling activities in the Eastern Mediterranean is a direct consequence of the Council’s conclusions of October 14, 2019, when the EU reaffirmed its full solidarity with Cyprus on this issue, respecting the sovereignty of the country and the rights derived from it.