EU sanctions GRU members for Estonia cyberattacks

The European Union has imposed sanctions on three members of Russia's military intelligence (GRU) for their involvement in a cyberattack against Estonia in May 2020, marking the first time Estonia has attributed such attacks to specific individuals. The sanctioned individuals, part of GRU's Unit 29155, are accused of targeting critical infrastructure and stealing confidential data, which poses a significant threat to Estonia and its allies. EU foreign ministers have reaffirmed their commitment to extending sanctions against Russia, emphasizing the need to restrict Moscow's financial capabilities to sustain its war in Ukraine. Additionally, discussions are ongoing regarding a support package for Moldova amid energy pressures from Russia. The sanctions demonstrate the EU's resolve in addressing cyber threats and supporting member states against hybrid warfare tactics employed by Russia. Hungary's approval of the sanctions was contingent upon addressing its concerns about energy security.