EU extends sanctions against Russia by 6 months, keeping up pressure over Ukraine conflict

The European Union has extended economic sanctions against Russia until January to keep pressure on Moscow over the conflict in eastern Ukraine.

An EU statement confirmed Monday that the decision had been taken by foreign ministers meeting in Luxembourg without debate.

The sanctions include limits to access on some financial markets and a ban on certain technologies. They were due to expire in July.

Fighting between Ukrainian forces and Russian-backed rebels has killed more than 6,400 people and persists despite a cease-fire agreed in February.