On Wednesday, the European Union greenlit a new round of sanctions against Russia, focusing on its so-called “shadow fleet” of oil tankers and signaling that more severe actions could be taken if Moscow does not agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine.
This latest package, marking the 17th set of sanctions imposed by the EU since Russia’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, was prepared ahead of an ultimatum from European leaders to support ongoing peace initiatives led by the U.S.
During a meeting in Brussels, diplomats from the EU’s 27 member nations approved the new measures, as confirmed by the Polish presidency of the bloc. The formal adoption of the sanctions is anticipated for next Tuesday.
Significant components of the sanctions include the blacklisting of approximately 200 oil tankers believed to be assisting Russia in evading restrictions on its oil exports. Additionally, companies in countries such as Vietnam, Serbia, and Turkey that are accused of providing goods to the Russian military will also be targeted.
The sanctions list is set to expand with the inclusion of numerous Russian individuals, adding to the nearly 2,400 people and entities already facing asset freezes and travel bans. The new listings comprise individuals implicated in cyberattacks, human rights abuses, and sabotage activities in Europe.
EU officials have noted that this recent batch of sanctions is comparatively more restrained than previous ones, highlighting the growing challenge in achieving agreement on additional targets.
Earlier, European leaders cautioned Moscow that it would encounter “massive sanctions” should it not comply with a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine.
On Tuesday, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to participate in peace discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Istanbul on Thursday, warning of additional sanctions if tangible progress toward ending the conflict is not made.
U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that he might attend the Istanbul discussions if both Putin and Zelensky are present, although the Kremlin has yet to confirm Putin’s attendance.
