The European Union has approved a fresh round of sanctions against Russia, targeting oil tankers and foreign companies accused of helping Moscow bypass restrictions, as pressure mounts on Kremlin to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine.
This marks the EU’s 17th package of sanctions since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
According to AFP, Truthlivenews learnt that the latest measures, agreed by diplomats from the 27 EU member states during a meeting in Brussels on Wednesday, aim to tighten controls on Russia’s ability to fund its war effort.
A key element of the new package is the blacklisting of around 200 oil tankers believed to be part of Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” — vessels allegedly used to secretly transport oil and evade existing sanctions.
In addition, companies based in Vietnam, Serbia, and Turkey accused of supplying materials to the Russian military will also face restrictions.
Dozens more Russian officials are set to be added to the EU’s sanctions list, which already includes nearly 2,400 individuals and entities. The sanctions include visa bans and asset freezes.
Other individuals are being targeted for their roles in cyberattacks, human rights violations, and acts of sabotage across Europe.
While officials admit this round of sanctions is more limited than earlier packages, they say it reflects growing challenges in securing consensus among all member states.
The new measures come as EU leaders warn Moscow of “massive sanctions” if it fails to agree to a proposed 30-day ceasefire, backed by the United States.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to engage in direct peace talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Istanbul this Thursday.
US President Donald Trump has also expressed willingness to attend the proposed talks if both leaders agree to meet.
However, there has been no confirmation from the Kremlin that Putin will participate in the discussions.