EU Targets Russian Cultural and Sports Figures in New Sanctions Bid

Arkady Dvorkovich, who leads the Swiss-based FIDE, faces blacklisting for his public support of the invasion and his role within the Russian Chess Federation, which allegedly organized tournaments in occupied territories. Similarly, Patriarch Kirill is being targeted for his consistent advocacy and religious justification of the ongoing military aggression.

These names were previously shielded from EU action by the government of former Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orbán. Following Orbán's electoral defeat to Péter Magyar in April, Brussels officials have moved to include them in the 21st round of sanctions. The draft list also encompasses Russian sports minister Mikhail Degtyarev, wrestling federation head Mikhail Mamiashvili, and acting Olympic Committee chief Stanislav Pozdniakov, all cited for their vocal support of the war effort.