The European Union has approved a new set of sanctions aimed at crippling Russia’s military-industrial complex and its shadow fleet, as well as networks supporting Moscow’s hybrid attacks against Europe. This announcement was made by EU foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell.
The sanctions focus on various sectors, including the military-industrial complex, energy revenues, and individuals involved in human rights violations. Borrell stated that these measures are designed to intensify pressure on Russia and limit its capacity to sustain its military operations.
“These sanctions strike at the core of Russia’s military-industrial complex and its shadow fleet, while targeting networks that fuel Moscow’s hybrid attacks against Europe. We are also working on a broader 21st package of sanctions,” Borrell remarked.
Borrell noted that previous Western sanctions have already cost Russia between €1 trillion and €1.3 trillion.
The latest round of sanctions includes restrictions on seven individuals and 21 organizations linked to Russia’s military-industrial sector and its intermediaries in third countries. This specifically targets manufacturers and suppliers of drones and other military equipment for Russian forces.
Additionally, a separate set of sanctions addresses Russia’s shadow oil ecosystem, listing two individuals and 24 organizations involved in the supply and export of crude oil and petroleum products from Russia, particularly through its shadow fleet. The EU Council emphasized that these schemes help circumvent sanctions and pose threats to maritime security and the environment.
The EU has also imposed sanctions against individuals associated with the spread of Russian state propaganda and disinformation. This includes Russian propagandists and representatives of organizations that have disseminated narratives justifying the war against Ukraine.
Furthermore, the sanctions list has been expanded to include individuals and organizations linked to the persecution, poisoning, and death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny.
Following an annual review, the EU has extended sanctions imposed in response to Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea and Sevastopol, which will remain in effect until June 23, 2027.
On April 23, ambassadors from EU member states formally approved the 20th package of sanctions against Russia. This package includes restrictions on Russian shadow fleet vessels, maritime exports, ports, banks, and personal sanctions.
In a statement to the media, Ukraine’s presidential envoy for sanctions policy, Vladislav Vasyuk, mentioned that approximately 70% of the content in the 20th package directly reflects contributions from the Ukrainian side.
The EU has enacted a new round of sanctions targeting Russia's military capabilities and shadow operations, aiming to further restrict its ability to conduct military actions. This latest measure includes specific restrictions on individuals and organizations linked to Russia's military-industrial complex and propaganda efforts.