Sanctions Hit Russia’s ‘Frank Sinatra’

The European Union announced on Monday a new list of individuals to be hit with sanctions for impeding Ukraine’s independence, including a singer known as Russia’s Frank Sinatra. Iosif Kobzon was targeted because the singer “visited the so-called Donetsk People’s Republic and during his visit made statements supporting separatists,” according to the EU's Official Journal. In addition to being the Russian equivalent of old blue eyes, Kobzon also serves in the Duma. Two Russian deputy defense ministers were also among the 19 new names on the EU's sanctions list. Ukraine and pro-Russian separatists agreed to a ceasefire that took effect on Sunday, but both have already accused the other of opening fire.