EU Imposes New Russia Sanctions Over Ukraine War, Hits Oil and Gas

The European Union has agreed to impose a fresh package of Russia sanctions aimed at curbing Moscow’s revenues from oil and gas amid the ongoing Ukraine war. Denmark, which currently holds the EU’s rotating presidency, confirmed the measures on Wednesday, noting that this marks the 19th round of Russia sanctions since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. The new Russia sanctions come as Europe seeks to maintain pressure on the Kremlin while US President Donald Trump’s efforts to broker a peace deal appear to falter.

The EU’s latest Russia sanctions include a move to accelerate the ban on importing liquefied natural gas from Russia, bringing the timeline forward to early 2027. In addition, the 27-nation bloc plans to blacklist over 100 more tankers from Russia’s “shadow fleet,” aging vessels used to bypass restrictions on oil exports. By targeting key energy sectors, these Russia sanctions are designed to weaken Moscow’s economic leverage and sustain pressure on the Kremlin to reconsider its actions in Ukraine.

Beyond the energy sector, the EU’s new Russia sanctions also aim to crack down on Russian diplomats suspected of espionage. The measures require Russian diplomats to report any travel outside the country where they are stationed, introducing tighter controls on diplomatic movements across Europe. This step reflects the EU’s intention to use Russia sanctions not only for economic pressure but also to monitor and limit activities linked to intelligence operations.

Earlier resistance to the Russia sanctions package came from Slovakia, which sought protections for its car industry from EU climate legislation. Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico eventually agreed to drop opposition after assurances were given on industrial protections. With the compromise reached, the EU’s Russia sanctions package is set to be formally adopted ahead of a summit in Brussels, where Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will join EU leaders to discuss continued support and strategic responses to the conflict.

These new Russia sanctions highlight Europe’s commitment to countering Russia’s military and economic influence while the war in Ukraine continues to devastate communities. By targeting energy revenues, shipping networks, and diplomatic activities, the EU aims to sustain pressure on Moscow and send a clear message that aggression in Ukraine will carry significant consequences.