Can sanctions pressure finally break the aggressor's economic foundation? The European Commission has presented the 18th package of sanctions against Russia, targeting the energy sector and the military industry. The new restrictions do not just increase the pressure - they call into question the Kremlin's ability to finance war, changing the rules of the game on the global stage.

Main innovations of the 18th sanctions package

The European Commission has proposed another, already 18th, package of sanctions against Russia in response to its military aggression in Ukraine. This time, the focus is on the energy sector, a key source of income for the Kremlin, and on the military industry. The main measures include a ban on transactions related to the Nord Stream gas pipelines, as well as strengthening control over banks that try to circumvent existing sanctions Reuters, The New York Times.

Lowering the price limit for Russian oil

Among the key innovations is a proposal to lower the price limit for Russian oil on the world market from $60 to $45 per barrel. This is intended to significantly limit Russia's income from energy exports, weakening its financial capabilities for waging war. The initiative is supported by the countries of Northern and Baltic Europe, which have long insisted on adapting the limit to market realities Euronews, European integration.

Expanding sanctions against banks and the “shadow fleet”

The package expands the list of Russian banks that will be disconnected from the international SWIFT system, as well as introducing a complete ban on transactions with them. In addition, new vessels of the “shadow fleet” — old tankers used by Russia to covertly transport oil, often under foreign flags or without registration — have been added to the “blacklist.” This makes it harder for the Kremlin to circumvent energy sanctions and significantly increases the cost of exports. Politico, Euronews.

Restrictions on the export of technologies and chemicals

The new package also expands export restrictions on dual-use goods, including chemical precursors that can be used to produce rocket fuel, as well as parts for high-precision numerically controlled (CNC) machines. This is intended to make it more difficult for Russia to access critical technologies for the military industry. European Commission.

Economic impact and prospects

Sanctions have reduced Russia’s oil and gas revenues by almost 80% compared to pre-war levels. The Russian economy is under significant pressure: inflation is above 10%, the budget deficit is growing, and the National Wealth Fund has shrunk by 65%. Sanctions make it difficult not only to export directly, but also to circumvent restrictions through a “shadow fleet” and financial schemes. European Commission, Reuters.

Next steps and international coordination

Discussions on the 18th sanctions package will begin in the coming days among EU member states. Coordination with G7 partners and other allies will be a key factor in success to ensure maximum effectiveness and minimize opportunities for circumvention. Politico, The New York Times.

Conclusion: Sanctions as a key deterrent tool

The new EU sanctions package is an important milestone in a comprehensive strategy to pressure Russia. It not only increases economic pressure, but also demonstrates Western unity in supporting Ukraine and the desire to end the war. At the same time, the challenges of circumventing sanctions require constant attention and policy adaptation.

Sources

Reuters, The New York Times, Politico, Euronews, European Commission, European integration