Russia Bans More EU Officials from Entry

Russia banned an additional number of European Union officials from entering the country, authorities announced on Friday.

The announcement came as a tit-for-tat response to restrictions imposed on Moscow by Brussels.

"Guided by the principle of reciprocity and parity, the Russian side decided to expand a list of representatives of EU member states and institutions who are prohibited from entering Russia," a statement by the Russian Foreign Ministry said.

Russia blacklisted the heads of some European private military firms, some members of security services, EU lawmakers and other officials who are "personally responsible for promoting anti-Russian policies," according to a statement on the Ministry's website.

However, the Foreign Ministry did not disclose the number of people involved or their names.

Accordingly, the EU reacted to the entry ban by saying that it "deplored" the new sanctions by Russia.

"The European Union deplores the decision by Russian authorities... to ban an unknown number of representatives of EU member states and institutions from entry into Russia," an EU spokesperson said.

"This decision lacks any legal justification and transparency and will meet an appropriate response," the statement added.

The EU had prolonged economic sanctions against Russia until at least July 31, as Russia “did not fully implement” the peace agreement.

Reports affirmed that the step will limit Russian banks and company access to EU capital markets. It will also halt all imports, exports or transfers of defense equipment, and limits Russia’s access to some “sensitive” technology used in oil production.