EU Sanctions Tikhon Shevkunov in 80-Name Russia Crackdown
Updated
Updated · europeantimes.news · Jun 18
EU Sanctions Tikhon Shevkunov in 80-Name Russia Crackdown
3 articles · Updated · europeantimes.news · Jun 18
Summary
Tikhon Shevkunov, the Simferopol and Crimean metropolitan known as “Putin’s spiritual father,” was added to a new EU sanctions list over support for Russia’s war against Ukraine.
The EU said he systematically spread propaganda and disinformation—casting Ukraine as “Nazi,” denying its sovereignty and portraying the invasion as divinely sanctioned—through sermons, media platforms and state-backed cultural projects.
The bloc also cited direct fundraising for Russian troops in occupied Crimea, saying his activities supported Moscow’s military actions and broader information manipulation tied to the conflict.
EU sanctions typically freeze any assets in the bloc, bar EU persons and entities from providing funds, and impose travel restrictions, curbing his ability to attend church, cultural and public events abroad.
The designation comes as Brussels prepares a 21st Russia sanctions package announced on June 9, expected to cover 90 banks and additional individuals linked to the war.
With legal experts challenging the sanctions, could the EU's entire anti-disinformation strategy be overturned in court?
Will sanctioning a religious leader for propaganda create a dangerous precedent for international free speech?
Beyond symbolism, how will targeting Putin's 'spiritual father' concretely impact Russia's ability to wage war?
EU’s 21st Sanctions: Metropolitan Tikhon Shevkunov and Russia’s War Economy in the Crosshairs
Overview
On June 18, 2026, the European Union advanced its 21st package of sanctions against Russia, aiming to further weaken Moscow’s ability to wage war in Ukraine. While work on this package was expected to finish earlier in June, the proposed measures still need approval from EU member states. The new restrictions target individuals and entities linked to Russia’s military and industrial complex, its shadow fleet, and efforts in political interference and hybrid threats. Germany has reaffirmed its support for Ukraine and stronger sanctions, especially after recent attacks from Russia against European cultural values, highlighting Russia’s unwillingness to negotiate for peace.