The European Union has officially adopted its 19th package of sanctions against Russia, introducing some of the most extensive restrictions to date on Moscow’s energy and financial sectors, as well as its diplomatic activities.
According to reports, the package includes a ban on the purchase of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) by European countries, with a gradual phase-out. Short-term contracts will expire within six months, while the withdrawal from long-term contracts will begin on January 1, 2027. In addition, the EU has sanctioned over 100 oil tankers, including 117 vessels from the so-called “shadow fleet,” used to transport Russian oil.
The bloc is also restricting the movement of Russian diplomats to the territory of their accredited country and imposing new measures on Russian banks and cryptocurrency transactions, as well as companies from India and China allegedly involved in supporting Russia’s economy. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the measures aim to further weaken Moscow’s ability to finance its military operations in Ukraine.
