“We must strike where Russia gets its money,” stated EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas, announcing a new wave of measures designed to cripple the finances fueling the ongoing war in Ukraine. On Friday, the European Commission presented its 19th package of sanctions against Russia, receiving immediate praise from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who welcomed the significant step.
What is in the EU’s New 19th Sanctions Package?
The newest package strikes at the foundations of Russia’s war machine, curbing financial channels and sealing gaps through high-tech measures.
Targeting the Shadow Fleet: A central element is the designation of 118 new vessels as part of Russia’s oil-shadow fleet. The goal is to use a ghost fleet of tankers to make it impossible for Moscow to avoid oil price caps and sanctions.
Combating Financial Evasion: Targeting schemes run through third nations, the package works to sever Russia’s channels to foreign funds and vital resources.
Core Economic Drivers: These sanctions strike at key areas—energy revenues, financial channels, advanced tech, and the military-industrial backbone.
Why Are These Sanctions Significant?
Previous sanctions have been criticized for their slow impact. Officials describe the package as more precise and impactful.
A Tangible Effect: Ukrainian President Zelenskiy said the measures would “deliver a real impact” by intensifying pressure on the “Russian war machine.” It focuses on the “primary drivers of the war economy,” he said.
Closing Loopholes: The EU is focusing on shadow fleets and offshore evasions to close the gaps that let Moscow absorb past penalties.
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What is the Ultimate Goal of the Sanctions?
EU leadership framed the new measures not just as punishment, but as a strategy to force a resolution.
Forcing Negotiations: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated the goal is to “give peace a real chance” by persuading Russia to finally come to the negotiation table after more than three and a half years of conflict.
Economic Pressure: At its heart, the plan seeks to choke off the Kremlin’s war chest by dismantling its sources of military funding.
