The Big Picture
On Friday, July 18, the European Union finalized its 18th sanctions package against Russia, marking one of the bloc’s strongest responses yet to Moscow’s ongoing war in Ukraine. The package introduces harsher penalties on oil exports and steps up enforcement against countries and entities that help Russia circumvent previous restrictions.
The agreement came after Slovakia withdrew its opposition, having secured what Prime Minister Robert Fico called “guarantees” over gas pricing during negotiations with Brussels. The compromise clears the way for a wider EU commitment to end Russian gas imports by 2027.
What’s New in the 18th Package?
- Lowered oil price cap to around $46 per barrel
- Ban on all Nord Stream-related gas transactions
- Targeted sanctions on Russian tankers, captains, and supporting firms
- Stronger enforcement against circumvention networks
French Support and Transatlantic Pressure
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot praised the measure in a post on X, calling the sanctions “unprecedented” and affirming France’s coordination with the U.S. to push Russia toward a ceasefire.
Denmark Tightens the Knot
Under Denmark’s EU Council Presidency, the sanctions were spearheaded with urgency and clarity. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen emphasized the economic pressure being applied to Russia’s war machine in a statement on X.
Zelensky Praises EU Unity
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude to EU leaders in a detailed post on X, thanking European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, EU Council President António Costa, and Denmark for the latest sanctions breakthrough.
What’s Next
The EU will monitor the sanctions’ enforcement and adjust its measures based on Russia’s actions and global coordination efforts. More alignment between EU and U.S. sanctions regimes is expected in the coming months as Russia intensifies strikes across Ukraine.
Zelensky also hinted at new synchronized sanctions from Kyiv, targeting Russian military logistics and economic infrastructure.
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