The European Union has officially confirmed the agreement on the 17th package of sanctions against Russia, marking another important step in Europe’s policy to counter Kremlin’s aggression
This was announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in a statement posted on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter). She emphasized that this new sanctions package includes a series of significant measures aimed at further restricting Russia’s technological and energy support, as well as imposing additional restrictions on its shipbuilding industry. In her remarks, President von der Leyen noted that Europe is further closing access to technologies used by Russia in its war against Ukraine, and she added 189 ships of the "shadow fleet" to the sanctions list. This is a special focus of the restrictive measures because, through the so-called "shadow fleet," Russia continues to transport energy resources bypassing regular control mechanisms, allowing the Kremlin to maintain and even increase its energy revenues during active hostilities. In her speech, von der Leyen highlighted: "This war must end. We will continue to apply high levels of pressure on the Kremlin." These words once again reflect the EU’s firm policy of tightening sanctions to isolate Russia and stop its aggressive actions in the region. According to political sources and diplomatic circles in Brussels, the preparation of the 17th sanctions package has already been finalized and approved by the EU member states’ ambassadors. This is an important procedural step, usually accompanied by the coordination of all details. The official approval of the plan is scheduled during the Foreign Affairs Council meeting of the EU, which will take place on May 20. Following the final approval of the 17th sanctions package, work on preparing the next, 18th, package will not stop. The European Commission is already preparing a new list of measures that will further increase pressure on Russia and its economy in response to its actions in the ongoing war. This once again underscores the EU’s determination to remain at the forefront of the international community, maintaining unity and strengthening economic and political sanctions against the aggressor country. Thus, the new sanctions package once again demonstrates the EU’s unwavering stance in supporting Ukraine and its commitment to punishing Russia for gross violations of international norms and its aggressive policies. It serves as a signal to the Kremlin that the EU remains firm and ready to implement further measures if needed, to stop the relentless actions and, through unity, help Ukraine achieve victory.