The European Union is preparing for new steps to increase pressure on Russia through the introduction of the 17th sanctions package and additional measures that will be even more restrictive
According to sources, they plan to approve this set of restrictions as early as May 20, and immediately add three new sanctions packages, each with its own focus and objectives. According to "European Truth," citing diplomats directly involved in the process of forming the new restrictions, these packages combine a broad geography and a range of measures. Notably, a major vote is scheduled in Brussels on Tuesday regarding four different areas of sanctions: traditional individual restrictions, sectoral measures, restrictions on the military-industrial complex, and measures against Russian hybrid and disinformation activities. It is expected that on the first day of approval, over 130 individual sanctions will be adopted against individuals and companies, along with restrictions on the Russian military-industrial complex and those supplying materials from third countries. Equally important is the fight against the so-called "shadow fleet" of Russia, which involves sanctions on approximately 200 ships, representing the largest-ever package of restrictions on Russian shipping. A significant focus on the agenda is also hybrid activities by Russia. The second sanctions package, dedicated to this aspect, will include 27 items aimed at strengthening countermeasures in response to the information and propaganda war and hybrid operations. Additionally, the third package aims to respond to human rights violations in the Russian Federation, proposing 28 individual sanctions. This will include restrictions against persons and entities involved in repressions, persecutions, and human rights abuses. The fourth package plans to intensify sanctions related to Russia’s use of chemical weapons, particularly considering their possible deployment in the war against Ukraine. This initiative is especially relevant given recent reports of potential use of chemical agents of mass destruction, posing new challenges to the international community. It is important to note that all four packages of sanctions have been agreed upon at the level of EU member state ambassadors, and so far, no country, including Hungary, has objected to their adoption. Thus, it is expected that on May 20, during the EU Foreign Affairs Council, the new restrictions will be officially approved, further strengthening economic, political, and humanitarian pressure on the aggressor. This decision will continue the system of measures initiated at the start of the full-scale invasion and has been progressively reinforced. The history of the EU shows that the latest sanctions packages are more extensive and targeted than ever before. For instance, the 16th package was adopted last December, and now the 17th is expected to be announced, again demonstrating the EU’s resolve to monitor and resist Russian aggression. As the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, announced, work is already underway on the next 18th sanctions package, which is planned to be developed and possibly presented by the end of this year. This indicates the EU’s systematic and consistent approach to supporting Ukraine and countering Russia’s aggression on diplomatic, economic, and international levels.