The sanctions on Russian diamonds are part of a G7 effort to develop an internationally coordinated diamond ban to deprive Russia of this revenue source.
Today, Pope Francis delivered his traditional urbi et orbi blessing to the faithful around the world, where traditionally took stock of world conflicts.
Parliament and Council reached a provisional agreement on new rules to reduce road transport emissions for passenger cars, vans, buses, trucks and trailers.
Major EU transport infrastructure projects should focus more on sustainable transport, avoid delays and establish links with Ukraine and Moldova, say transport MEPs.
Russian deputies voted on Tuesday for a bill allowing mobilisation orders to be sent electronically. The measure will make it easier to enlist in the army.