European Union countries agreed Thursday on a watered-down 21st sanctions package against Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.
European Council President António Costa announced the agreement, saying the measures target energy, financial services, cryptocurrency and trade.
“Our support for Ukraine and for a just and sustainable peace remains unwavering,” Costa wrote on X.
However, diplomats said Greece secured an exemption allowing its shipping companies to transport Russian liquefied natural gas from the Arctic.
The agreement also freezes the Russian crude oil price cap at $44 per barrel for 12 months.
EU ambassadors faced pressure to finalize the cap before an automatic increase could deliver greater revenues to Moscow.
The measure aims to limit Russia’s energy income as global oil prices rise because of escalating Middle East tensions.
Meanwhile, the new package targets Russia’s financial sector and cryptocurrency companies while adding dozens of officials to sanctions lists.
However, several major proposals faced opposition and were removed or postponed during negotiations among member states.
EU Defers Visa Ban and Drops Import Restrictions
A proposed visa ban targeting Russian soldiers who fought in Ukraine was delayed, with countries agreeing only to pursue the measure later.
Additionally, Bulgaria blocked plans to sanction Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill through asset freezes and visa restrictions.
Furthermore, Portugal and France opposed proposed restrictions on Russian cod and Alaskan pollock imports.
The sanctions arrive as Ukraine intensifies drone attacks against Russian oil refineries, fuel infrastructure and commercial logistics facilities.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said sanctions continue weakening the economic foundations supporting Russia’s war effort.
Although Russia has endured years of Western restrictions, EU officials say the measures increasingly pressure its economy.
Nevertheless, diplomats warn that securing unanimous support for future sanctions will become harder after 21 rounds of restrictions.
