The European Union is working on its 15th package of sanctions against Russia, aimed at increasing pressure over its ongoing aggression against Ukraine. On Wednesday, representatives of the 27 member states discussed the European Commission’s proposals, which include tough restrictions against the “shadow fleet” of Russian tankers and companies supplying military equipment to the Kremlin, including Chinese drone manufacturers, DPA reports.
Shadow tanker fleet under threat of blockade
One of the key points of the new package is the fight against Russia’s fleet of “shadow tankers”, which is used to transport oil and oil products to circumvent Western sanctions. These vessels are not registered with Western companies and do not have insurance, which makes them difficult to track and control.
According to experts, such vessels pose a threat to the environment and safety of maritime transport, as most of them are technically outdated and often operate without automatic identification systems.
This week, the UK added 30 such tankers to its sanctions list. The EU plans to go further, extending the restriction to 50 vessels. In particular, they may be banned from entering the ports of EU member states.
Sanctions against suppliers of drones to the Kremlin
Another innovation will be the introduction of sanctions against companies that supply drones to the Russian army. Chinese firms that contribute to the production and supply of drones used by Russia in its war against Ukraine are in the crosshairs.
This is the first time that the EU is considering imposing sanctions on Chinese companies as part of war-related measures.
Timing and future plans
A decision on the new sanctions package may be made by the end of the year. In February 2024, on the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the EU plans to present another large-scale sanctions package.
The latest, 14th package of sanctions, approved in June, included measures against the trade in liquefied natural gas and companies helping Russia to avoid restrictions.
The new measures demonstrate the EU’s determination not only to deter Russia, but also to counteract the Kremlin’s international partners who support its military actions.
