European Union member states on Friday approved a sweeping new package of sanctions on Russia, marking the 18th round of punitive measures since the Kremlin launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The latest measures include lowering the cap on Russian oil exports to third countries and targeting over 100 vessels in Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” of tankers used to bypass sanctions.
“This is one of the EU’s strongest sanctions packages to date,” EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said. “Each sanction weakens Russia’s ability to wage war. Europe remains united in supporting Ukraine.”
Slovakia, which had delayed the package over concerns about gas prices, dropped its opposition after securing concessions from Brussels regarding Russian gas imports. The EU plans to phase out such imports by 2027.
Under the new rules, the EU will revise its oil price cap to 15% below market rates, bringing it down from the G7’s $60 per barrel level to an initial $47.60. The cap prohibits Western companies from providing shipping or insurance for Russian oil sold above the limit.
The package also includes sanctions on a Russian-owned refinery in India, two Chinese banks, and further restrictions on dual-use technology exports that could aid Russia’s war efforts. Measures were also introduced to ensure defunct Baltic pipelines Nord Stream 1 and 2 remain inactive.
Despite resistance from Washington, EU diplomats expect G7 allies like the UK and Canada to endorse the package. Meanwhile, the U.S. under President Trump has yet to commit to the revised oil cap strategy.
