[European Council extends sanctions against Russian-related individuals and entities] On October 8, the European Council issued an announcement on October 8, local time, that it would extend sanctions against some Russian-related individuals and entities for one year to October 9, 2027. The announcement stated that relevant sanctions currently involve a total of 80 individuals and 20 entities. Sanctions include travel restrictions, asset freezes, and prohibitions on providing funds or other economic resources to listed individuals and entities. Since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on February 24, 2022, the EU has significantly expanded sanctions against Russia, and Russia has taken countermeasures in response. The EU stated that the relevant measures are aimed at weakening Russia's economic foundation and energy income, restricting its access to key technologies and markets, and continuing to exert pressure on Russia. The effectiveness of EU sanctions against Russia has been widely questioned within the EU. (CCTV News)