The European Union is pushing to adopt a new round of sanctions against Russia, but disagreements among member states are slowing progress ahead of the 24 February deadline, which coincides with the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Key Dispute: Maritime Ban
The main sticking point is a proposed full ban on maritime services for Russian oil tankers, which would effectively override the existing G7 price cap of $44.10 per barrel. Under the proposal, EU companies would be prohibited from providing insurance, banking, shipping, or catering services to vessels carrying Russian crude, aiming to raise transportation costs and reduce Kremlin profits.
However, Greece and Malta, with large maritime sectors, are concerned the ban could hurt their domestic economies, benefit competitors in India and China, and empower Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet”—older ships used to bypass sanctions. Their opposition is not absolute, and could ease if G7 partners adopt similar measures.
EU Determination
Despite the lack of a full G7 alignment, EU officials emphasize they can proceed independently. Economy Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis stated:
“It’s not an absolute precondition. But the higher alignment we can achieve, including at the G7 level, the better. We will not shy away from steps at the EU level should the broader agreement not be forthcoming.”
Diplomats believe the EU’s geographic position gives it leverage over seaborne Russian oil trade, allowing the bloc to act even without full US cooperation.
Other Sanctions Measures
The EU is also considering activating the Anti-Circumvention Tool, targeting exports of EU-made machinery and radios to countries at high risk of re-exporting them to Russia. Kyrgyzstan has emerged as a focus, due to unusually high trade levels that may facilitate Russian access to blacklisted items.
Political Context
Hungary and Slovakia have expressed general reservations about the full sanctions package, echoing positions in previous negotiations. EU foreign ministers are scheduled to meet in Brussels on Monday to discuss the Kremlin’s war as a priority agenda item.
High Representative Kaja Kallas emphasized the impact of sanctions:
“Sanctions are working. They are severely hurting Russia’s economy… But Putin won’t end this war until the costs are higher than the benefits. And that is the point we must reach.”
