European Union ambassadors agreed on a new set of sanctions – the 15th – against Russia in response to its war on Ukraine. This new package specifically targets a substantial “shadow fleet” of ships that Moscow is using to evade restrictions on transporting oil and fuel and Chinese firms making drones for Moscow.
The sanctions will impact approximately 50 ships, often in poor condition, operating illegally to bypass existing sanctions. As the Hungarian presidency stated, the measures are designed to “constrain the activity” of vessels that support or contribute to Russia’s actions against Ukraine.
In addition to targeting these ships, the sanctions will also focus on more officials and entities, including organisations, companies, banks, and government agencies, particularly those in countries that assist Russia circumventing export restrictions concerning military technology.
EU foreign ministers are expected to formally approve the sanctions package on Monday. The measures will be published in the EU’s official legal journal, revealing specific details regarding the individuals and entities affected.
“The EU and its G7 partners are committed to keeping a pressure on the Kremlin. I welcome the agreement on our 15th package of sanctions, targeting in particular Russia’s shadow fleet,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen posted on X.
Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the EU has imposed several rounds of sanctions on Russia. More than 2,300 people and entities are subject to these restrictive measures, which have targeted the energy sector, banks, the world’s largest diamond mining company, various businesses, and markets. The sanctions have included asset freezes, travel bans on President Vladimir Putin and his associates, and numerous Russian lawmakers.
