The European Union on Wednesday approved a fresh package of sanctions against Russia, intensifying pressure on Moscow over its continued war in Ukraine and warning of more severe consequences if a ceasefire is not reached.
This marks the EU’s 17th round of sanctions since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The latest measures were finalized by diplomats from all 27 member states during a meeting in Brussels, according to the Polish presidency of the EU. Formal adoption is expected next Tuesday.
A key feature of the new sanctions is a crackdown on Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” of oil tankers—approximately 200 vessels suspected of helping Moscow evade existing restrictions on its energy exports will be blacklisted.
The package also targets companies in countries such as Vietnam, Serbia, and Turkey accused of aiding Russia’s military by supplying sanctioned goods. Additionally, dozens more Russian officials will be added to the nearly 2,400 individuals and entities already facing EU asset freezes and visa bans.
New penalties also address Russian involvement in cyberattacks, human rights violations, and acts of sabotage across Europe.
While EU officials acknowledge this package is more limited in scope compared to earlier rounds, they point to growing internal challenges in reaching consensus on further sanctions.
The approval comes just as EU leaders issued a strong warning to Moscow: accept a 30-day ceasefire proposal, backed by the United States, or face “massive” new sanctions.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz reinforced that message on Tuesday, cautioning Russia that it would face additional European penalties if there is no significant movement toward peace by the end of the week.
Merz also called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Istanbul on Thursday to discuss a ceasefire.
US President Donald Trump has indicated a willingness to attend the talks if both leaders agree to participate, but the Kremlin has yet to confirm Putin’s attendance.
