Complex EU-Russia Relations: The relationship between the European Union (EU) and Russia is complicated and influenced by historical, cultural, and economic ties. However, recent events, including Russia's actions in Ukraine and Crimea, loosened these ties, leading to sanctions and disruptions in cooperation.

EU Response to Russian Aggression: The EU's response to Russia's actions has included implementing restrictive measures and sectoral sanctions. These measures aim to deter Russian aggression and express solidarity with Ukraine. The absence of full Minsk agreement implementation by Russia has led to a suspension of high-level dialogues and cooperation.

Shared Interests and Challenges: Despite tensions, the EU and Russia have common interests in various global issues, such as climate change, regional cooperation, and counterterrorism. However, they have different approaches to conflicts in Syria and Africa highlight their geopolitical differences.

Economic Dependence on Russia: The EU relies heavily on Russian energy imports, especially natural gas, raising concerns about energy security and vulnerabilities.

Promoting Human Rights and Media Freedom: The EU actively supports human rights, media freedom, and civil society within Russia. EU-backed civil society projects and NGOs face challenges in Russia, with laws labeling foreign-funded groups as "foreign agents" and restricting their activities.

Challenges to Civil Society: Education and people-to-people contacts remain crucial for maintaining connections despite political tensions between Russia and the EU.