EU approves new sanctions package targeting Russia's 'shadow fleet'

The EU has given the greenlight to a fresh round of sanctions against Russia, sharpening its focus on the Kremlin's 'shadow' oil fleet and foreign companies accused of aiding its war machine.

The European Union has approved a powerful new round of sanctions on Russia, stepping up pressure on the Kremlin as hopes for a breakthrough ceasefire in Ukraine begin to gather momentum.

This 17th package of measures – endorsed by all 27 member states in Brussels – takes direct aim at Russia's so-called “shadow fleet” of oil tankers and expands restrictions on firms and individuals propping up Moscow's war effort.

Set to be formally adopted in Brussels next Tuesday, the package includes the blacklisting of around 200 tankers allegedly used to dodge restrictions on Russian oil exports.

It also slaps fresh sanctions on companies based in Vietnam, Serbia and Turkey accused of channelling supplies to Russia's military sector.

Dozens more Russian officials will join the nearly 2,400 individuals and entities already subject to EU asset freezes and travel bans, while the package also tackles cyberattacks, human rights violations and acts of sabotage linked to Russian operatives in Europe.

France leads EU push for tougher Russia sanctions amid ceasefire stalemate

Pressure on Russia

Speaking this week at a democracy summit in Copenhagen, Kaja Kallas, the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs underlined, “We need to put pressure on Russia because it takes two to want peace; it only takes one to want war, and Russia clearly wants war".

France has welcomed the move, with President Emmanuel Macron signalling support for additional sanctions if Moscow fails to engage with a proposed 30-day ceasefire plan backed by the United States.

He also indicated that future measures could target Russia's financial services and energy sectors, including oil and gas.

Macron says France does not want to unleash 'World War III' over Ukraine

Diplomatic push

The EU's fresh measures come as diplomatic efforts have intensified over bringing the Ukraine war to an end, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is ready to attend potential peace talks in Istanbul later this week.

Though the Kremlin remains silent on Russian President Vladimir Putin's participation, momentum is building around the idea of a direct dialogue.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged Russia to seize the moment. “This is a real opportunity for progress. If Russia refuses to act, the consequences will be swift and serious,” he said.

While EU officials have acknowledged that forging agreement on new sanctions is becoming more complex, the bloc's message is clear: Europe will keep tightening the screws until Russia changes course.