Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The European Commission is to start consultations with EU nations on Jan 14 about the next package of sanctions against Russia.
According to the radio station RMF 24, Poland, which carries the EU presidency, expects the package of restrictions to be assumed by February 24, 2025. Meanwhile, it is reported that the preparation of fresh restrictions may encounter a number of problems since EU diplomats consider that a certain “ceiling” in decision-making has been reached.
This decision follows the implementation of the 15th sanctions package on December 16, 2024, aimed at bolstering support for Ukraine and constricting Russia’s capability to continue military aggression. New consultations are a testament to the fact that the EU is still building up its sanctions regime in the wake of shifting geopolitics.
How does the sanctions impact Russia’s military capabilities?
The EU approved, on December 16, 2024, its 15th sanctions package on Russia regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine. The sanctions package includes all sorts of economic and individual measures that are considered to further strain Russia’s warring capabilities. Travel bans and asset freezes were issued against 54 individuals and 30 entities related to providing support for the war in Ukraine, including military support and propaganda.
The EU has strengthened sanctions against more than 52 vessels considered part of Russia’s “shadow fleet,” which is used to bypass those already in place, especially as regards the transport of oil and military supplies. For the first time, sanctions are also being imposed on Chinese persons and entities accused of supplying military and civilian products to Russia, thus aiding in the circumvention of EU sanctions.
New measures prevent EU businesses from recognising or enforcing Russian court decisions, which will have negative effects on their activities. The move to adopt the sanctions package signals the EU’s continued commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression and confronting attempts to use international networks to evade sanctions.
