European Union ambassadors on Thursday evening approved the ninth round of sanctions against Russia as leaders gave their green light to an €18 billion aid package for Ukraine, writes the Euronews.

The new sanctions package was finalised by ambassadors on the sidelines of a summit of EU leaders in Brussels. The final text has not yet been released as it first needs to be sent and formally endorsed by all EU capitals but is expected to be made public on Friday.

The European Commission’s proposal, released last week, planned for a further 200 Russian individuals and entities to be hit with asset freezes and travel bans. These include government ministers, lawmakers, regional governors, political parties and entities including the armed forces. They will join the 1,241 individuals and 118 entities already blacklisted.

Leaders meanwhile approved an €18 billion macro-financial assistance package for Ukraine for 2023 to ensure Kyiv can cover state deficits and keep the economy running as it continues to fight the Russian invasion.