The key facts
- The EU's 22nd sanctions package will include new restrictions against the 'shadow fleet' carrying Russian oil
- The measures may affect Russia's energy and financial sectors and companies from third countries
- The EU admits the possibility of halting the approval of new sanctions after February 2027 due to the elections in France
Announcement of new restrictions
The European Union intends to include new restrictions against Russian oil in its 22nd sanctions package. This was announced by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas during her speech at a European Parliament session in Strasbourg. According to her, she proposed adding 'new restrictions against the shadow fleet' to the package being prepared — referring to foreign tankers which, according to Brussels, carry Russian oil and petroleum products while circumventing existing European restrictions.
Scope of the measures
According to Kallas, the additional measures are planned to extend to Russian energy and financial organizations. Brussels is also considering the possibility of imposing sanctions on individual companies and entities from third countries. At the same time, Kallas did not specify which enterprises and vessels could fall under the restrictions. The new measures are being prepared against the backdrop of an energy crisis in the EU.
Time constraints
Earlier, the European Union admitted the possibility of halting the approval of new sanctions against Russia after February 2027. As the outlet reported, European politicians fear complications due to the upcoming presidential elections in France: the first round is scheduled for April 18, 2027, and the second for May 2. Incumbent President Emmanuel Macron will not be able to run in the elections due to the limit on consecutive presidential terms.
