On May 20, the European Union adopted its 17th sanctions package against Russia, intensifying efforts to curb Moscow’s ability to sustain its war in Ukraine. This latest round of sanctions targets nearly 200 vessels associated with Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet”—a network of aging, often uninsured oil tankers used to circumvent international sanctions and the G7’s $60-per-barrel oil price cap.
EU High Representative Kaja Kallas announced the sanctions following the Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Brussels, emphasizing that further measures are forthcoming: “More sanctions on Russia are in the pipeline. The longer Russia continues its war, the stronger our response will be.”
Beyond targeting the shadow fleet, the sanctions address hybrid threats and human rights violations. The package includes penalties against individuals and entities linked to Russia’s military-industrial complex and those involved in circumventing existing sanctions.
The Foreign Affairs Council, which included EU Defense Ministers, also discussed military support for Ukraine. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov participated via videoconference, and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte attended the meeting. The EU reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ukraine, with over €23 billion allocated for military aid this year, and discussed the training of Ukrainian soldiers through the EUMAM Ukraine mission.
In parallel, the United Kingdom announced extensive new sanctions against Russia, targeting 100 entities across the military, energy, and financial sectors. These measures include sanctions on 18 vessels identified as part of Russia’s shadow fleet and individuals linked to these efforts. The UK is also collaborating internationally to decrease the $60 per barrel oil price cap to further limit Russia’s oil revenue.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the new sanctions, criticizing Russia’s tactics to prolong the conflict and urging for increased international pressure. He emphasized the need for genuine proposals at the negotiating table and expressed gratitude for the sanctions imposed by the EU and the UK.
Header image: Russia fleet oil tanker Pashin arrives at Havana’s harbor on June 12, 2024. © Yamil Lage, AFP
