EU Proposes 19th Sanctions Package on Russia, Targets Gas Imports and Banks
The European Commission has unveiled its 19th package of sanctions against Russia, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed on Friday. She said the move reflects Europe’s growing determination to pressure Moscow after weeks of what she described as “contempt for diplomacy and international law.”
Why the New Sanctions?
Von der Leyen pointed to Russia’s intensified missile and drone strikes on Ukraine, as well as the violation of EU airspace by Russian drones in Poland and Romania.
“Again and again, President Putin has escalated. And in response, Europe is increasing its pressure,” von der Leyen said in a statement released by the European Commission.
Ban on Russian LNG Imports
A key highlight of the sanctions package is a ban on imports of Russian Liquified Natural Gas (LNG).
“Russia’s war economy is sustained by revenues from fossil fuels. We want to cut these revenues,” von der Leyen explained, adding that the EU has been preparing for this step by diversifying energy supplies, investing in renewables, and reducing dependency on Russian fuel.
Financial Loopholes to Be Closed
The Commission also plans to crack down on the financial channels helping Russia evade sanctions. This includes a transaction ban on additional Russian banks and certain banks in third countries that facilitate Moscow’s financial maneuvering.
Human Rights Measures
The EU’s foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the package will also make it easier to impose sanctions on individuals involved in the abduction and indoctrination of Ukrainian children.
Pressure on the United States
Meanwhile, Western leaders have been urging US President Donald Trump to take a tougher stance on Russia. However, Trump recently warned NATO allies that the US will only implement “major” sanctions against Moscow if European nations commit to the same measures and end their purchases of Russian oil.