Representatives of the countries members of the European Union agreed to the imposition of a new 15th sanctions package against Russia, BTA reports.
The main objective of this package is to tighten measures against the circumvention of already imposed sanctions. Among the main innovations is the introduction of sanctions against “shadow“ a fleet of oil tankers that have been used to violate international export restrictions.
In addition, the package includes the addition of new individuals and organizations to the sanctions list. This affects not only individuals and organizations in Russia, but also those in third countries that indirectly contribute to strengthening Russia's military and technological stability by circumventing existing export restrictions.
Third Country Restrictions
The Hungarian EU presidency said the new sanctions also include restrictions on the activities of third-country vessels that contribute to or support Russia's actions against Ukraine. This applies to vessels that provide assistance to Russia in the context of its military aggression. The measure aims to reduce the possibility of circumventing sanctions by limiting international support for Russia.
Disagreements in the EU over sanctions
Despite the progress made during the meeting on December 6, EU representatives were unable to reach a full agreement. Two of the member states have blocked the adoption of the new package due to differences over the extension of the period in which European companies can abandon their operations in Russia. This blockade highlights existing differences within the EU over the approach to sanctions against Russia, which calls into question the union's unity.
Reactions of the heads of EU institutions
Following the approval of the new sanctions package, the heads of the main EU institutions welcomed the decision. European Council President Antonio Costa stressed that this was an important step towards limiting Russia's ability to wage war. In the same vein, European Parliament President Roberta Mezzola expressed the parliament's support for Ukraine and pointed out that the sanctions demonstrate the EU's determination to keep putting pressure on the Kremlin. She added that the EU is sending a clear message of its steadfast commitment to Ukraine.
Confirmation of sanctions and future support for Ukraine
In addition, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU foreign policy and security chief Kaia Callas expressed confidence that the new sanctions would weaken Putin's military power and affect his ability to wage war. Although the sanctions decision has been approved at the ambassadorial level, it will be subject to further approval before it takes effect.