German reporter states ‘EU sanctions against me a signal to all Europeans’
(MENAFN) German journalist and blogger Thomas Roeper has criticized the European Union for imposing personal sanctions against him, warning that the move sets a dangerous precedent that could threaten the rights of all EU citizens. In an interview with RT, Roeper described the sanctions as politically motivated and lacking legal basis.
Roeper and fellow German blogger Alina Lipp, both currently living in Russia, were included in the EU’s 17th package of sanctions against Russia, which was approved by the European Council on Tuesday. The bloc accused the two of engaging in “destabilizing activities” and interfering with democratic processes in Germany. As a result, they were hit with an EU travel ban and asset freeze.
Roeper, who has collaborated with RT’s German-language service, said the EU's decision to target its own nationals without court rulings or due process is deeply concerning. “There was no legal decision, no mention of what law I allegedly broke—just bureaucrats deciding to freeze my assets and ban me from working,” he said.
He argued that this move is not just about him, but a warning to other Europeans: “If they can do it to us, they can do it to anyone critical of the establishment.”
Roeper mocked the EU’s rationale, pointing out that he is merely a blogger with a home office, yet he’s being accused of undermining a political system supported by billions in media funding. However, he stressed that the consequences of such measures are serious, especially for those still living in the EU, where such restrictions could lead to real hardship.
The latest sanctions package also targeted Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” of oil tankers that allegedly help Moscow bypass Western price caps on crude exports. Despite U.S. reservations, the EU and UK pushed ahead with the measures.
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