European Union, EU, has imposed additional punitive measures against North Korea over recent nuclear and ballistic missile tests carried out in defiance of UN resolutions. The 28-nation bloc said it is adding 16 North Korean individuals and 12 entities to the sanctions blacklist. The European Union established diplomatic relations with North Korea in 2001 but contacts are minimal. Brussels adopted its first sanctions in 2006.
The UN Security Council on Wednesday adopted the toughest sanctions yet against Pyongyang, imposing unprecedented inspections of all cargo to and from the reclusive country.