Explainers

EU sanctions can target governments of non-EU countries, entities and individuals. The EU can impose restrictive measures in order to implement UN resolutions, to reinforce UN sanctions or on its own initiative.

The EU has actively supported international efforts to achieve peace and stability in Sudan since the beginning of the war in 2023. The EU and its member states together are the biggest donor of humanitarian aid to Sudan.

Following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the EU has taken a number of steps to help refugees fleeing the war, including through the EU temporary protection mechanism.

The European Union and its member states are among the leading donors of humanitarian aid in the world, including to the Palestinian people, aiming to save lives, prevent and alleviate human suffering and maintain human dignity. Since 1992, the EU's budget has supported humanitarian efforts in more than 110 countries, benefiting millions of people every year.

The integrated political crisis response (IPCR) arrangements support rapid and coordinated decision-making at EU political level for major and complex crises.

At ensuing European Council meetings between 2023 and 2026, EU leaders have adopted conclusions on the situation in the Middle East. The content of the page reflects the latest conclusions from 18-19 June 2026.

The EU is concerned about the situation in Venezuela and calls for full respect for human rights. It is providing humanitarian aid to help Venezuelans in need and has adopted sanctions to encourage democratic solutions.

The EU has provided emergency assistance to Ukraine and its people since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion. The EU and its 27 member states together are the biggest donor of humanitarian aid to Ukraine.

The EU stands with the Syrian people. It supports a peaceful and inclusive transition in Syria, the respect for human rights and the country’s socio-economic recovery.

In the face of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, the EU has taken a number of initiatives to support Ukraine’s energy security, as well as the country’s transport and connectivity sectors.