BRUSSELS, Belgium – The European Union has approved its 21st package of sanctions against Russia, introducing new financial and trade restrictions aimed at increasing pressure on Moscow as the war in Ukraine continues.
Okay News reports that the latest measures include adding 32 more Russian banks to the EU’s transaction ban list, alongside sanctions targeting cryptocurrency firms and oil trading platforms. The bloc also agreed to freeze adjustments to the Russian oil price cap for one year to prevent Russia from benefiting from market fluctuations.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the sanctions come as Ukraine continues to make military gains, adding that the restrictions are intended to further weaken the economic resources supporting Russia’s military operations.
The new package also marks the first time the EU has targeted vessels linked to Russia’s shadow fleet and includes a step toward formally banning Russian combatants from entering the European Union. Von der Leyen thanked Ireland’s 2026 EU Presidency for helping secure agreement on the sanctions package.
