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New EU sanctions against members of the Russian judiciary

by AI | 23.Dec 2025 | Europe in brief AI

The EU accuses a judge and a prosecutor from Russia of human rights violations, repression and undermining democracy – and is taking action.

Flag of the European Union in front of the EU Parliament in Strasbourg. Photo: Philipp von Ditfurth/dpa

Brussels (dpa) – Due to suspected human rights violations, two members of the Russian judiciary will no longer be allowed to enter the EU or use assets held in the EU. The Council of the Member States imposed sanctions against Dmitri Gordejew and Ljudmila Balandina, according to a statement. They are responsible for serious human rights violations, the suppression of civil society and the democratic opposition, as well as the undermining of democracy and the rule of law in Russia.

In addition to the entry and asset ban, EU citizens and companies are also prohibited from making funds available to the two.

Gordejew is a judge at the Moscow City Court and has repeatedly issued politically motivated rulings against opposition figures and human rights defenders, the statement said. He has systematically disregarded fundamental standards of impartial jurisprudence.

Balandina is a public prosecutor and has played a key role in several high-profile cases marked by serious human rights violations and the suppression of people who criticized the Russian authorities or supported Ukraine. She has therefore systematically abused her position as a prosecutor to pursue politically motivated charges. (22 December)