Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for the European Union to incorporate maritime services used by Russia into its upcoming sanctions package. He emphasized that such measures are essential for exerting genuine pressure on Russia amid the ongoing conflict.
Zelensky stated, “This includes banning maritime services for vessels utilized by Russia. Europe must reach this decision, as it could serve as a significant incentive for Russia to shift from warfare to genuine diplomacy. The war needs to end.” He also pointed out that Ukraine has already sanctioned 225 ship captains involved in transporting Russian oil.
In a broader context, Ukraine recently imposed sanctions on nearly 700 tankers associated with Russia’s clandestine fleet, which has been transporting oil in violation of international restrictions. This represents one of the largest sanctions packages targeting vessels that facilitate aggression, including those flying flags from over 50 jurisdictions.
Additionally, German Foreign Minister Johan Wadephul has indicated that the 20th sanctions package from the EU aims to limit Russia’s energy revenues, neutralize its shadow fleet, and block schemes designed to circumvent EU sanctions.
However, as reported by Reuters, EU ambassadors failed to reach an agreement on the 20th sanctions package on February 20. They are expected to reconvene over the weekend to continue discussions ahead of a meeting of European foreign ministers scheduled for February 23.
Reports from Bloomberg indicate that Greece and Malta have opposed a proposal from the European Commission to replace the “price cap” on Russian oil with a ban on transportation services.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged the EU to include maritime services in new sanctions against Russia, highlighting the need for effective measures to pressure Moscow. As discussions on the 20th sanctions package continue, Ukraine has already targeted a significant number of vessels linked to Russian oil transport.