In response to Russian dictator Vladimir Putin’s refusal to cease fire, the countries of the European Union have decided to implement the 17th sanctions package. However, this new package may turn out to be less severe than expected.
This is reported by Finway
EU ambassadors have already approved the new restrictions. Hungary and Slovakia, which are significantly dependent on Russian energy imports, supported the package considering its relative weakness.
Main Measures of the New Sanctions Package
The new sanctions package will significantly restrict Russia’s access to technologies used in military operations and will also blacklist an additional 189 vessels from the so-called “shadow fleet” of the Russian Federation. The final approval of the new package will take place on May 20. Considering previous sanctions packages, nearly 350 vessels belonging to this fleet will be subject to EU restrictions.
Next Steps for the European Commission
European Commission Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis noted that the sanctions pressure on Russia will continue. After the approval of the 17th sanctions package, the EU plans to begin work on subsequent measures.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine also pointed out that the new restrictions could affect Russia’s banking sector. In turn, the Verkhovna Rada has adopted in principle bill No. 13020, which will allow for restrictions on specific vessels and aircraft involved in Russia’s shadow transportation of oil, weapons, and military supplies.