EU considers travel ban on Russian defense minister

The European Union (EU) may impose a travel ban on Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu as part of a new package of sanctions over the crisis in Ukraine, sources said Thursday.

The 28-nation bloc is set to decide by Friday on fresh economic and other measures against Moscow over allegations that it has sent troops and weapons to support Ukrainian rebels.

"The ministers name was discussed" by ambassadors in Brussels who are considering the sanctions, the European source told AFP, referring to Shoigu. 

A second diplomatic source also confirmed that the Russian defense minister was being considered.

In total, the EU is looking at imposing travel bans on 20 people close to Russian President Vladimir Putin, the sources said. 

European leaders ordered officials at a summit on Saturday to draw up new sanctions within one week, and incoming EU diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini said they would decide on the measures on Friday.

They are expected to reinforce existing sanctions targeting Russias financial services, oil industry technology, and the sale of arms and "dual use" goods that can have both military and civilian roles.

The EU sanctions have so far targeted around 100 Russian and Ukrainian figures, including Moscows Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin.

Western powers have accused Russia of sending troops to back a counter-offensive by pro-Kremlin rebels in the latest stage of a five-month conflict that has claimed nearly 2,600 lives. Moscow denies the charge.

Source: ANTARA