New sanctions against Russia. The European Union has carried out the 19th package of sanctions against Russia after weeks of negotiations between member countries. The measures are focused on closing the way to Russian fuels, with the prohibition of the purchase of Liquefied Natural Gas from 2027, and vetoing companies from third countries such as China. This package comes after the United States announced measures against Russian oil companies Rosneft and Lukoil, which have also been sanctioned by the United Kingdom.
The sanctions consist of the prohibition of imports of Liquefied Natural Gas starting in 2027. In addition, no type of commercial relations can be had with the Russian oil companies Rosneft and Gazprom and the list of vessels banned from the ghost fleet that Russia uses to evade the blockade of Europe is expanded by 117 vessels.
On the other hand, punishments against Russian financial entities are expanded, prohibiting operations, which will also include cryptocurrency platforms. These measures include 45 companies and entities from third countries, 12 of them in China and Hong Kong, accused of helping Russia evade sanctions.
The sanctions include limiting the movement of Russian diplomats within the European Union and developing legislation against the kidnapping of Ukrainian children moving to Russia.
“The sanctions have a real impact and are harming the Russian economy. Russia is finding it increasingly difficult to finance its illegal war against Ukraine,” said Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen. Denmark currently holds the rotating presidency of the EU.
This package has been under negotiation between EU countries for weeks. Austria, Hungary and Slovakia had put obstacles to its approval. Although a week ago Austria and Hungary gave in in exchange for financial concessions, Slovakia was the country that delayed lifting its veto the longest. Its prime minister, Rober Fico, demanded measures that would make the requirements in the fight against climate change in the automobile industry more flexible.