The European Commission welcomes the Councils adoption of the 16th sanctions package against Russia. This package, which increases pressure on the aggressor, reinforces the EUs commitment to a just and lasting peace for Ukraine.
The package targets key sectors of the Russian economy such as energy, trade, transport, infrastructure, and financial services. To prevent circumvention, certain provisions are also applied to the Belarus sanctions regime. Additionally, the EU has strengthened its sanctions regarding Crimea and Sevastopol, and the non-government-controlled areas of Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia.
Key elements of the 16th package:
ANTI-CIRCUMVENTION MEASURES
- The package targets 74 additional vessels, bringing the total to 153, and introduces a new criterion for listing those who support unsafe oil tankers.
- There are export restrictions for 53 new companies supporting Russias military-industrial complex or engaged in sanctions circumvention.
ADDITIONAL LISTINGS
- 83 additional listings, including 48 individuals and 35 entities involved in sanctions circumvention or the Russian military sector.
TRADE MEASURES
A direct import ban on Russian aluminium has been established, with a quota mechanism for a smooth transition.
ENERGY MEASURES
- Complete prohibition on temporary storage or placement of Russian oil in EU ports.
TRANSPORT MEASURES
- Extension of the flight ban for airlines conducting domestic flights in Russia.
INFRASTRUCTURE MEASURES
- Full transaction ban on specific Russian infrastructures, including major ports and airports.
FINANCIAL SECTOR MEASURES
- 13 financial institutions added to the list of entities prohibited from providing specialized financial messaging services.
MEASURES AGAINST DISINFORMATION
- Suspension of broadcasting activities of 8 media outlets in the EU supporting Russias war against Ukraine.
Background
EU sanctions are crucial in the EUs response to Russias unjustified military aggression against Ukraine, as they weaken Russias military and technological capabilities and contribute to a just and lasting peace.
Russia is actively attempting to circumvent sanctions, proving the effectiveness of our measures. Thus, we must intensify efforts to tackle circumvention and seek closer cooperation from certain third countries.