If approved by the European Council, it will be the first time the EU has used a new mechanism — the Magnitsky Act — to take punitive measures against human rights abuses.

Josep Borrell, the EU foreign policy chief, said Russia is moving away from Europe, and the EU needs to deliver a strong message to Russia.

The new sanctions would consist of travel bans and asset freezes for Russian officials with close ties to President Vladimir Putin. The sanctions will begin in March after EU approval.