EU Plans New Russia Sanctions

The European Union is preparing its 21st sanctions package against Russia, with a focus on the so-called shadow fleet of tankers used to transport Russian oil, according to Politico. EU diplomats say this fleet is a key source of revenue for the Kremlin, allowing Moscow to circumvent Western restrictions and finance the war in Ukraine.

The proposed measures could also target Russian banks, financial institutions, military-industrial companies and firms involved in trading Ukrainian grain taken from occupied territories. Furthermore, officials are discussing the possible revival of proposals previously blocked by Hungary, including sanctions against figures linked to the Russian Orthodox Church, led by Patriarch Kirill.

Brussels is considering tighter restrictions on maritime services provided to Russian vessels, an area where earlier efforts have been limited, particularly due to opposition from Greece and Malta.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said political changes in Hungary have created new scope for tougher measures against Moscow. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Kallas are pushing to finalize a broad sanctions package before the summer.

European officials also say Russia’s economy is under its greatest strain since the start of the war. The EU therefore does not intend to ease pressure, arguing that a combination of sanctions, military support and Ukraine’s battlefield performance could strengthen Kyiv’s position in any future peace talks.

(max)