The European Union has issued a statement confirming that several non-EU countries have aligned with Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/438, which renews restrictive measures against Russia concerning the illegal annexation of Ukrainian territories. The decision extends these measures for one year, until February 24, 2027. The aligning countries, including Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, and Ukraine, will ensure their national policies conform to this EU decision.

This alignment signifies an expansion of the restrictive measures regime beyond the EU member states. Compliance officers should note that these countries are now formally committed to upholding the EU's sanctions framework related to the annexation. While the document does not specify new direct obligations for regulated entities within the EU, it indicates a broader international consensus and enforcement landscape for these sanctions. Entities operating in or dealing with these aligning countries should ensure their due diligence and compliance programs reflect the extended scope of the restrictive measures.