EU member states have agreed on the 15th package of sanctions against Russia, which includes measures targeting the so-called shadow fleet of third countries that enables Russia to export oil and natural gas while bypassing Western sanctions.

As announced by Hungary’s EU presidency on “X,” the 15th package of sanctions was agreed upon at the level of EU ambassadors. This package “adds more individuals and entities to the existing sanctions list and targets entities in Russia as well as third countries that indirectly contribute to Russia’s military and technological development by circumventing sanctions. Additionally, measures were approved to restrict the activity of third-country vessels that support actions or policies of Russia against Ukraine.”

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed the EU member states’ agreement on the 15th sanctions package against Russia, which primarily targets Russia’s shadow fleet, stating that the EU and its G7 partners are committed to exerting even greater pressure on the Kremlin.