EU adopts 17th sanctions package against Russia

European Commission - Press release EU adopts 17th sanctions package against Russia Brussels, 20 May 2025 The European Commission welcomes the Council's adoption of the 17th Russia sanctions package. New EU sanctions increase the cost for Russia to continue its war, adding pressure on its already strained and fragile economy. This is a clear signal of the EU's continued and unwavering support for Ukraine. This package aims to further restrict Russia's access to battlefield technologies and cut revenues from Russian energy imports by targeting an unprecedented number of vessels from Russia's shadow fleet. The package also expands the number of individual and entity listings. Moreover, it prolongs an existing exemption from the oil price cap for the Sakhalin-2 project to ensure Japan's energy security. The 17th package contains the following key elements: ANTI-CIRCUMVENTION MEASURES The EU has listed 189 additional vessels that are part of the shadow fleet of oil tankers or contribute to Russia's energy revenues, bringing the total number of listings to 342. The vessels have been identified together with Member States and the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA). They are now subject to a port access ban and a ban on provision of services. The 17th package represents the largest single G7 sanctions action targeting shadow fleet vessels. EU vessels listings, along with efforts from partner countries like the UK and US, are significantly reducing Russia's ability...