Brussels: EU foreign ministers gathered in Brussels on Monday to discuss a new package of sanctions against Russia, the war in Ukraine, and a range of international security issues, the bloc's foreign policy chief said.

According to Anadolu Agency, "We are hoping that we get 250 listings agreed, and then we are also working for the 21st sanctions package where we don't have agreement yet," Kaja Kallas told reporters ahead of the meeting. Kallas emphasized that the proposed sanctions listings were "a reaction to the attacks that Russia has had on the civilians recently."

Kallas stated that the meeting's agenda included discussions on the plight of Ukrainian civilians allegedly detained in Russian-controlled territories, such as teachers, journalists, prisoners of war, and abducted children. "We are thinking of launching a platform where we can actually meet those requirements to get those people free," she said, noting the difficulty in obtaining information on detained civilians compared to abducted children.

In addition, Kallas highlighted the EU's focus on its Black Sea strategy, which involves cooperation between Bulgaria and Romania to safeguard critical infrastructure and tackle hybrid threats in the region. She mentioned that the Foreign Affairs Council is expected to approve a new partnership mission for Armenia aimed at helping the country counter hybrid threats and foreign information manipulation and interference.

The meeting also covered Middle Eastern affairs, with ministers set to engage with Gulf partners on regional security and address developments in the Strait of Hormuz. Kallas asserted, "The Strait of Hormuz has to be opened, the freedom of navigation has to be respected. There can't be no tolls, no fees for navigation there."

Further discussions are anticipated on Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Western Balkans, and the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Kallas remarked, "We should not forget about this and also send clear messages to those who are mediating but also those who are meddling there."