The European Union has officially approved its 19th package of sanctions against Russia, marking another step in the bloc’s efforts to weaken Moscow’s war economy and reduce its dependence on Russian energy. The decision came after Slovakia lifted its veto, ending weeks of deadlock among member states.

The new measures target major parts of Russia’s economy including energy, finance, and transport, and aim to stop other countries from helping Moscow avoid existing restrictions. The package introduces a phased ban on Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports, set to take full effect by January 2027, as part of the EU’s broader plan to eliminate Russian fossil fuels entirely.

The sanctions also place 117 ships from Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” on a blacklist. These tankers are believed to help Russia bypass the Western oil price cap. In addition, the package introduces tighter rules for Russian banks, crypto exchanges, and companies in China and India accused of helping Russia dodge sanctions. Travel restrictions on Russian diplomats have also been strengthened, limiting their movement within the EU.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who had been blocking the agreement, dropped his opposition after EU leaders added references to high energy prices and the European car industry in the conclusions of the latest European Council meeting.

The EU’s announcement coincided with new sanctions from Washington: the U.S. Treasury Department unveiled fresh restrictions targeting major Russian oil producers Rosneft and Lukoil, alongside dozens of their subsidiaries. The move underscores growing transatlantic coordination on sanctions policy. 

The latest package signals Europe’s determination to sustain economic pressure on the Kremlin while reinforcing its commitment to Ukraine. However, the negotiations once again revealed internal divisions within the bloc, as countries such as Hungary and Slovakia continue to question the long-term costs of sanctions on European industries.

With the 19th sanctions package now adopted, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announced that the Union will soon begin preparations for a 20th package. B2EU Consulting closely follows all developments related to EU’s sanctions against Russia, so follow our website and LinkedIn page for the latest insights.