EU prepares new sanctions package against Russia – Kallas, von der Leyen

The European Union is working on a new, expansive package of sanctions against Russia, going beyond the recently adopted 17th round. This was announced today by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas during the European Political Community (EPC) summit in Tirana, Albania.

“We have the 17th package. Now we are ready and working on the next package,” said Kallas, clarifying that the new measures are separate from the most recent sanctions previously agreed upon. “So far, the sanctions have targeted the energy sector, but political isolation of Russia is also crucial. We must all be united in this, because it is clear that Russia does not want peace,” she stated.

Von der Leyen emphasized that the new sanctions aim to increase pressure on Moscow, including punitive measures related to key energy infrastructure and financial systems. “Putin does not want peace, which is why we must step up our pressure,” she said. “This new package, for example, includes sanctions targeting Nord Stream 1 and 2, more vessels of Russia’s shadow fleet, a reduction in the oil price cap, and additional restrictions on Russia’s financial sector.”

Addressing questions about the relevance of sanctioning the Nord Stream pipelines, which are currently non-operational, the European Commission explained that future scenarios must be considered. “Technically, the first pipeline could be repaired, and the second might still receive a license. The aim is to block any future interest in these projects, especially from investors,” the Commission stated.

Currently, the G7’s agreed oil price cap stands at $60 per barrel. The proposed reduction is expected to be a central point of discussion in finalizing the new package.

However, EU consensus may face obstacles. Hungary and Slovakia are reportedly skeptical of further restrictive measures, which could complicate adoption of the next round of sanctions.