The United Kingdom and the European Union jointly announced sanctions against Russia today (13 July 2026), accusing Moscow of orchestrating cyberattacks aimed at sowing ‘chaos and division across Europe’. The UK imposed sanctions on 24 individuals and entities linked to Russian intelligence services, while the EU targeted 13 individuals and organisations—including officers from Russia’s military intelligence agency, the GRU.
FSB’s ‘Centre 16’ Named in Multiple Attacks
For the first time, London and Brussels jointly designated Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) as responsible for a cyberattack on Poland’s power grid. According to UK officials, the operation—launched by the FSB’s so-called ‘Centre 16’—failed but still caused a power outage affecting 500,000 people ‘in the middle of winter’. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas confirmed that Centre 16 has also been behind cyber-espionage operations targeting strategic government entities in France since 2010.
Strong Condemnation from EU and UK Leaders
‘We strongly condemn Russia’s behaviour,’ said Kallas, denouncing the Kremlin’s use of cybercriminals, hackers, and private companies to carry out these attacks. ‘Whether directing criminals against businesses or striking Poland’s energy network mid-winter, the Russian state has reached a new low in its efforts to undermine European security,’ added UK Foreign Minister Ivet Cooper.
The UK has already sanctioned around 3,400 individuals and entities accused of supporting Russia’s war effort against Ukraine. Similarly, the EU has imposed sanctions on roughly 2,700 individuals and entities for the same reason—and an additional 100 for alleged hybrid attacks targeting EU member states. These measures include asset freezes and travel bans within the EU.
Germany and France Summon Russian Envoys
Germany’s Foreign Ministry summoned Russia’s ambassador today to protest what it described as ‘malicious cyber activities’ attributed to Moscow and carried out across multiple European countries. In a post on X, the ministry stressed that cyberattacks against Germany, its EU partners, and Ukraine are unacceptable—and will be met with decisive responses, including further sanctions.
France is set to summon the Russian ambassador in Paris in the coming days over reported hacking campaigns allegedly conducted by Russia against European nations, including France itself. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot confirmed the move earlier today.