The EU Announces New Sanctions on Russia Amidst Ukraine Truce Negotiations

As the Trump administration engages in talks with Russian officials regarding a potential truce in Ukraine, the European Union has unveiled plans for a 16th package of sanctions targeting Moscow. Among the measures outlined are sanctions on 73 additional vessels from Russia’s “shadow fleet” of aging tankers.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the EU’s commitment to exerting pressure on the Kremlin by cracking down on circumvention tactics. “The EU is clamping down even harder on circumvention by targeting more vessels in Putin’s shadow fleet and imposing new import and export bans,” stated von der Leyen.

For the first time, the EU has imposed restrictions on Russian seaports used to evade the G7 price cap on Russian oil. Terminals such as Kozmino, Primorsk, Ust-Luga, and Novorossiysk have been flagged for consistently exporting oil above the price limit, prompting the EU’s regulatory actions.

Additionally, the EU has introduced a phased ban on Russian aluminum imports and expanded sanctions on specific Russian officials and banks as part of its ongoing support for Ukraine and condemnation of Russian aggression.

European Peacekeeping Plan for Ukraine

Meanwhile, European officials have revealed a preliminary Franco-British proposal to deploy a peacekeeping force to Ukraine following a potential cessation of hostilities. The proposed force, consisting of approximately 30,000 servicemembers, would primarily focus on safeguarding Ukraine’s airspace and sea lines of communication without direct engagement with Russian forces on the front line.

U.S. Negotiations with Russia

In contrast to the EU’s stringent stance, the U.S. government’s approach has highlighted potential commercial opportunities in fostering closer ties with Moscow. The U.S. State Department issued a statement emphasizing negotiations with Russia to explore future cooperation on geopolitical matters, economic opportunities, and investments, alongside discussions on a potential peace deal for Ukraine.