The European Union will significantly reduce the number of Russian diplomats at Russia’s mission in Brussels, capping the staff at 40 personnel.

Axar.az, citing European External Action, reports that the decision, announced by EU diplomacy chief Kaja Kallas during the Foreign Affairs Council on February 23, 2026, aims to limit Russia’s diplomatic presence in the EU.

This move is part of a broader strategy to pressure Moscow over its ongoing war in Ukraine.

It complements other EU actions, including sanctions on individuals responsible for human rights abuses, restrictions on Russia’s shadow fleet, and tighter measures to prevent potential war criminals from entering the Schengen area.

The decision comes amid repeated Russian violations of international agreements, including failures to withdraw troops from occupied territories in Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia.

By reducing diplomatic privileges and enforcing these measures, the EU seeks to reinforce accountability while continuing to support Ukraine and uphold European security.