EU plans 19th package of sanctions against Russia – focus on tanker fleet and banks

On Wednesday, the European Commission plans to present its 19th package of sanctions against Russia for its war of aggression against Ukraine.

According to EU diplomats, Brussels is primarily targeting Moscow's so-called shadow fleet of tankers, which it uses to circumvent restrictions on oil sales.

Estonian politician Kaja Kallas, who is leading the negotiations, emphasized that the aim is to limit Russia's revenues from energy exports and thus make it more difficult to finance the war.

The package is also expected to include new restrictions on Russian banks and oil exports. In addition, consideration is being given to blacklisting several banks in Central Asia on suspicion of helping Russia circumvent the measures.

Independent Chinese refineries are also being targeted because, according to the EU, they purchase Russian oil outside official channels.

If the member states agree, it would be another attempt to increase pressure on the Kremlin and at the same time demonstrate the Union's unity in the face of Russian practices.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has made his approval conditional. He said he would not support new sanctions unless the EU Commission presented realistic proposals on how to reconcile ambitious climate targets with the needs of the automotive and heavy industries, not only in Slovakia but throughout Europe.

(reuters, red)