EU Approves 17th Sanctions Package Against Russia

The European Union has approved a new round of sanctions against Russia — its 17th since Moscow launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

The latest measures, agreed on Wednesday by diplomats from the EU’s 27 member states, aim to tighten pressure on Russia by targeting its so-called “shadow” oil fleet and further restricting its access to military goods.

According to the Polish presidency of the EU, the sanctions package is expected to be formally adopted on Tuesday. It includes blacklisting around 200 oil tankers believed to be helping Russia bypass international restrictions on its oil exports.

The EU also plans to impose penalties on companies based in Vietnam, Serbia, and Turkey accused of supplying goods to the Russian military. In addition, dozens of Russian officials will be added to the growing list — nearly 2,400 individuals and entities — already facing EU visa bans and asset freezes.

New sanctions also address issues such as cyber attacks, human rights violations, and acts of sabotage linked to Russia within Europe.

While EU officials acknowledge this package is more limited compared to earlier ones, reaching consensus on new targets has become increasingly challenging. Still, European leaders are warning that tougher measures may follow if Russia refuses to consider a US-backed 30-day ceasefire proposal.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz issued a strong message to Moscow, saying more sanctions would come if there is no clear step toward peace this week. He called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for ceasefire talks in Istanbul on Thursday.

US President Donald Trump has expressed willingness to attend the talks, but the Kremlin has not confirmed whether Putin will participate.

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