The European Union is working on implementing the 19th sanctions package against the Russian Federation; however, the new restrictions will not affect the energy sector, which remains a key source of funding for Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
This is reported by Business • Media
Focus on Combating Sanctions Evasion
In Brussels, it is emphasized that the new sanctions package will include measures primarily aimed at combating the so-called “shadow” fleet, as well as against companies that help Russia evade the existing sanctions. At the same time, serious blows to the energy sector, which provides billions in revenue to the Russian budget, are not anticipated.
Analysts note that it is the American sanctions being discussed in the U.S. that may have a more significant impact on the Russian economy. This refers to the possibility of implementing secondary sanctions against companies and countries that continue to cooperate with Russia despite international restrictions. Experts believe that these steps could significantly exacerbate Russia’s economic problems.
Restrictions on Diplomats and Ukraine’s Calls to Action
In Europe, additional measures are also being considered, including restrictions on the free movement of Russian diplomats within the Schengen Area. Such initiatives aim to enhance the effectiveness of sanctions pressure on Russia.
Ukraine, for its part, demands that the international community impose new sanctions in response to Russia’s attempts to legitimize the occupation of the seaports of Berdiansk and Mariupol. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine condemned the Russian government’s order from August 22, which included the temporarily occupied Ukrainian cities’ seaports in the list of Russian ports open to foreign vessels.
It is emphasized that this is a flagrant violation of fundamental norms and principles of international law.