The European Union is considering for the first time the possibility of imposing secondary sanctions on states that assist the Russian Federation in evading existing restrictions. It is planned that EU foreign ministers will discuss the application of the tool to counter sanctions evasion, which was approved back in 2023 but has not yet been used in practice.
This is reported by Finway
New Approaches to EU Sanctions Policy
According to this tool, the export, supply, or transfer of certain goods to third countries that are deemed to be helping Russia avoid sanctions pressure may be prohibited. The EU is also considering the possibility of implementing additional trade restrictions and strengthening sanctions against the oil, gas, and financial sectors of Russia. Brussels is already preparing the 19th package of sanctions measures against the Russian Federation.
Potential US Actions Regarding Russian Oil
Analysts emphasize that US President Donald Trump has effective tools at his disposal to increase pressure on Moscow. In particular, this includes the possibility of imposing secondary sanctions on the export of Russian oil. This could compel India, China, and other buyers to adhere to established American restrictions.
“To increase pressure on Moscow, Washington could also eliminate the gap between US and EU sanctions against the ‘shadow fleet’, imposing sanctions on Russian oil companies, ports, and more.”
If the appropriate decisions are made, the EU and the US could significantly complicate Russia’s ability to circumvent already established sanctions and intensify economic pressure on the aggressor country.