EU sanctions 351 Russian lawmakers who voted to recognise Ukraine's separatist republics

The European Union has agreed to sanction the 351 members of the State Duma who voted in favour of Russia's recognition of the self-proclaimed people's republics of Donetsk and Luhansk, in eastern Ukraine, Euronews reports.

The bloc will also punish 27 individuals and entities accused of destabilising Ukraine, waging disinformation campaigns and providing financial support to the two separatist regions.

The targets will be subject to asset freezes and travel bans, which means they will not be allowed to enter or transit through EU territory.

"This is a clear escalation of Russian aggression against Ukraine," said Josep Borell, the EU's top diplomat, in a press conference in Paris.

"We demonstrate our determination to respond robustly to latest developments."

The new package of sanctions also includes restrictions on Russian banks and government bodies that limit their access to the EU's financial and capital markets and block Russia's sovereign debt.

Trade between EU countries and the breakaway regions will also be severely cut off "to ensure that those responsible really feel the consequences of their illegal and aggressive actions."

By going after commercial links, the bloc wants to prevent Moscow from raising additional funds that could be used to bankroll the military campaign that has begun in eastern Ukraine.