EU Approves 16th Package of Sanctions Against Russia: New Restrictions and Bans
The European Union is increasing pressure on the Kremlin with new restrictions targeting the "shadow fleet" and Russia’s trade operations. Official approval is set for February 24.
Photo: pixabay.com
The ambassadors of the European Union have agreed on the 16th package of sanctions against Russia. This was announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in her post on social media platform X.
The new restrictions aim to counter the circumvention of sanctions, with a particular focus on Russia’s "shadow fleet" involved in illicit oil transportation.
Additionally, the package introduces new export and import bans designed to weaken the Russian economy and restrict access to critical technologies.
The official approval of the sanctions is scheduled for February 24, marking the anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The EU intends to maintain pressure on the Kremlin, aiming to deprive it of resources for waging war.
It is worth noting that on December 16, the EU Council approved the 15th package of sanctions against Russia, increasing pressure on its military and shadow fleet, as reported on the European Council’s website.
The restrictions affected 54 individuals and 30 entities, including those responsible for attacks on Ukraine, child deportations, and sanctions evasion.
For the first time, the sanctions targeted Chinese companies supplying components for Russian drones. Additionally, 52 foreign vessels assisting in bypassing the oil embargo were added to the blacklist.
I welcome the agreement on our 16th package of sanctions.
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) February 19, 2025
The EU is clamping down even harder on circumvention by targeting more vessels in Putin’s shadow fleet and imposing new import and export bans.
We are committed to keep up the pressure on the Kremlin.
Earlier, it was reported that the EU and the UK announced their intention to strengthen support for Ukraine and work on enhancing its security, coordinating further actions with the US to establish a just and lasting peace.
It was also revealed that at the 2025 Munich Conference, Canada announced an expansion of its support for Ukraine, allocating $17.2 million for demining, cybersecurity, and the supply of necessary equipment.