- The EU’s 19th sanctions package increases pressure on Russia’s energy and banking sectors.
- New restrictions cover crypto exchanges and entities aiding Moscow’s military and financial networks.
The European Union has adopted its 19th sanctions package against Russia, marking a new phase in its response to the war in Ukraine. Announced in Brussels, the move strengthens the EU’s commitment to supporting Ukraine and countering Russian aggression.
The measures focus on energy, finance, and the military-industrial complex. They also tighten restrictions on Russian diplomats’ movements within the EU. The Council added new sanctions on Belarus for helping Moscow’s war effort.
The EU said the decision followed renewed Russian strikes on Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure, including power stations and hospitals. The bloc described the attacks as deliberate acts that increase human suffering.
EU High Representative Kaja Kallas said the new sanctions hit Russian energy firms, banks, crypto exchanges, and even Chinese entities. She explained that the goal is to reduce Moscow’s financial ability to continue the war.
“It is becoming increasingly difficult for Putin to finance his war,” Kallas stated. “Every euro we deny Russia is one it cannot spend on aggression. The 19th package will not be the last.”
The sanctions target Rosneft and Gazprom Neft, enforcing tighter embargoes and banning Russian gas imports. Long-term contracts will end in January 2027, while short-term deals must stop within six months.
The EU listed Russia’s largest gold producer to curb Moscow’s revenue and added 117 vessels to its sanctions list, bringing the total to 557. The list also names a Tatarstani oil firm and several Chinese companies trading Russian crude.
Litasco, Lukoil’s UAE-based shadow fleet, and a major Sovcomflot shipbuilder were also sanctioned. The EU banned the Russian National Payment Card System and blocklisted eight banks and traders from the UAE, Hong Kong, and Central Asia.
To limit Russia’s use of crypto, the EU sanctioned the stablecoin A7A5, its issuer in Kyrgyzstan, and its platform operators. It also blocklisted 11 individuals linked to the illegal deportation of nearly 20,000 Ukrainian children.
The EU aims to weaken the Kremlin’s financial and military strength through these actions while reinforcing Ukraine’s defence and sovereignty.