More EU Sanctions Against Russia, Ban on Nord Stream and Oil Exports

The Commission proposes that European companies should no longer provide services to the Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines. The goal is to prevent Russia from eventually reactivating that infrastructure or using it for sabotage. The ban applies to technical, financial, and logistical support for both pipelines.

In addition to energy, the package also targets the Russian banking sector. Four more Russian banks will be added to the sanctions list. These banks are said to facilitate transactions that support the Russian war industry. Their assets in the EU will be frozen, and cooperation with European companies will be prohibited.

The so-called 'shadow fleet' of oil tankers attempting to export Russian oil is also being addressed. EU member states must conduct more inspections and refuse such ships access to ports. Furthermore, the Commission wants to be able to take legal action against European companies that facilitate this oil smuggling.

The eighteenth package also includes trade restrictions on technology and goods that can be used militarily. This includes semiconductors and optical components. These parts are currently exported to Russia via third countries and could still reach the Russian military.

There is also focus on the role of companies in 'third countries.' Brussels wants to introduce sanctions against companies outside the EU that continue to supply products to Russia despite existing measures. This aims to tackle sanction evasion through countries such as China, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates.

According to sources in Brussels, there is still no full agreement. Some EU countries fear economic damage or diplomatic tensions. Nevertheless, Commission President Von der Leyen emphasizes that it is time to counter “sanction fatigue” and maintain European unity.