EU Council Extends Sanctions Against Syria for One Year

The European Union on Thursday extended sanctions against the Syrian government for another year in light of continuing violence in the country, the European Council said Thursday.

BRUSSELS (Sputnik) – Syria has been hit by a series of EU sanctions since the country's civil war began four years ago.

An EU diplomat specified to RIA Novosti that the Council extended its decision from May 31, 2013, when the Council had agreed to adopt restrictive measures against Syria for one year, imposing sanctions that included exports and imports, finance, transport and infrastructure projects.

"As the situation in Syria continues to deteriorate, the Council has extended EU restrictive measures against the Syrian regime by one year," the statement on the council’s website said.

The Council said that one high-ranking military official considered responsible for repression and violence against civilians in Damascus was targeted by a travel ban and EU asset freeze.

According to the Council, more than 200 individuals and 70 entities are currently targeted by EU sanctions over "the violent repression against the civilian population in Syria."

The Council stressed that its decision extended the ban on arms exports to Syria, an oil embargo and restrictions on certain investments until June 1, 2016.