EU and UK slap new sanctions on Russian ‘shadow fleet’ illicitly transporting oil
Brussels, June 10, 2025 – In a bold move, the European Union has announced its 18th package of sanctions against Russia, targeting the Kremlin’s energy revenue and financial networks. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen declared, “Strength is the only language Russia understands,” as the EU responded to the ongoing Russian attacks on Ukraine.
Why the EU Is Imposing More Sanctions on Russia
The EU’s latest sanctions come in response to Russia’s continued military strikes in Ukraine, despite repeated diplomatic efforts for peace.
Key highlights of the new measures include:
- Lowering the oil price cap from $60 to $45 per barrel
- A full transaction ban on Russian banks in third countries aiding sanctions evasion
- A proposed ban on Russian energy infrastructure like the Nord Stream pipelines
- Expanded export bans on high-tech goods and weapon components
Von der Leyen stated that these steps are necessary to “cut the revenues funding Russia’s war machine.”
Targeting Russia’s Energy Lifeline
Russia’s oil exports remain a major source of income, funding nearly one-third of its government budget. The EU’s decision to reduce the oil price cap aims to choke Moscow’s war chest without triggering a global energy crisis.
“The oil price cap worked, but now prices have fallen. We must adjust,” said von der Leyen.
Introduced in December 2022 by the EU and G7, the oil price cap restricts Western companies from transporting or insuring Russian oil priced above the set limit. Currently, global oil benchmarks like Brent crude are trading near $68, making the original $60 cap less effective.
Cracking Down on Russia’s Banking Ties
In a major escalation, the EU plans to:
- Blacklist 22 additional Russian banks
- Ban all transactions between EU businesses and sanctioned Russian banks
- Extend the ban to foreign financial institutions helping Russia bypass restrictions
This move builds on earlier efforts by the EU, US, UK, and Canada, who removed Russian banks from SWIFT in 2022, severely hampering Russia’s global financial access.
Sanctions on Defense Tech and Military Support
To limit Russia’s military advancements, the EU will broaden its ban on dual-use technologies—products that can serve both civilian and military purposes.
The new sanctions will also hit:
- 22 Russian and foreign companies aiding Russia’s defense sector
- Suppliers of critical military components used in drones, missiles, and tanks
“We must ensure Russia can’t modernize its weapons with European technologies,” emphasized von der Leyen.
Ukraine Welcomes EU’s Firm Stand
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised the sanctions as a “significant step,” while expressing concern over the lack of similar action from the United States.
“Russia is increasing its attacks because it sees a weak global response. Putin hears no resistance from Washington, and that’s dangerous,” said Zelensky.
Despite calls from leaders of Germany, France, the UK, and Poland for a ceasefire, Russian President Vladimir Putin ignored the appeal, pushing instead for talks that favor Russia’s demands.
What’s Next?
The proposed sanctions must still be approved by all 27 EU member states. Some nations like Hungary and Slovakia have previously voiced opposition, but have eventually supported prior sanctions.
If passed, this package could mark a turning point in Europe’s pressure campaign against Russia, significantly cutting off funds and tech critical to the war effort.
Conclusion: A Unified Europe Tightens the Screws
As Russia shows no signs of backing down, the EU is intensifying its strategy to cripple the Kremlin’s war economy. By targeting oil profits, banking channels, and defense tech, Brussels sends a clear message: peace will only come through strength.
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