EU approves 17th package of sanctions against Russia

It includes restrictions on nearly 200 vessels of the so-called “shadow fleet.”

“The new measures also aim to address hybrid threats and protect human rights. Additional sanctions against Russia are being prepared. The longer Russia continues its war, the harsher our response will be,” emphasized EU High Representative Kaja Kallas.

An additional 189 vessels involved in transporting Russian oil in circumvention of sanctions have been added to the sanctions list. These ships are now banned from entering ports and using port services.

The restrictions also target companies assisting in the transportation of Russian oil, including shipping firms from the UAE, Turkey, and Hong Kong. One of Russia’s major insurers has also been sanctioned.

The sanctions extend to the Russian oil company Surgutneftegaz, more than 45 other Russian firms and individuals supplying the Russian military with drones, weapons, ammunition, and military equipment. Restrictions were also imposed on 31 companies that helped Russia circumvent previous sanctions on dual-use goods.

Additionally, the new sanctions package includes 75 individuals and organizations involved in the looting of cultural heritage in Crimea and the illegal exploitation of Ukraine’s agricultural production in temporarily occupied territories.

These sanctions mark the first step in response to the failed negotiations and phone call between Trump and Putin, which made it clear that Ukraine and Europe were left alone to face Putin, as Trump refused to impose sanctions on Russia.