EU Adopts 18th Sanctions Package Against Russia to Cut War Funding

The European Union has adopted its 18th sanctions package against Russia, marking one of the toughest measures since the start of the war in Ukraine. The new package targets Russia’s oil revenues, banking system, and trade routes that have been used to bypass earlier restrictions. Slovakia had initially blocked the move but lifted its veto after negotiations. The authors of the package described it as crucial to closing loopholes and weakening Russia’s wartime economy.

Why the EU Tightened Sanctions?

Russia has repeatedly adapted to previous sanctions by finding new trade partners and exploiting loopholes. As a result, the EU introduced the 18th sanctions package against Russia to strengthen enforcement rather than create entirely new bans. Sanctions are part of a constant economic battle, with the EU closing gaps as Russia discovers new ways to evade them.

What are the Main Goals of the New Package?

The 18th sanctions package focuses on reducing Russia’s energy income and financial resources. It aims to block the shadow fleet of tankers, target Russian banks, and restrict access to military technology.

What are the New Measures of the 18th Sanctions Package?

• The oil price cap has been lowered to about $47.6 per barrel, with dynamic adjustments.
• Imports of refined oil made from Russian crude in third countries are now banned.
• Twenty-two more Russian banks face transaction bans, including those linked to Nord Stream projects.
• Over 105 new vessels were blacklisted, bringing the “shadow fleet” count to more than 400.
• Export restrictions on military-use technology have been tightened.
• Sanctions now extend to third-country actors helping Russia evade restrictions.
• New limits on liquefied natural gas (LNG) aim to reduce Russia’s long-term energy revenues.

Why These Measures Matter?

The 18th sanctions package against Russia is not just about new bans; it is about ensuring old rules work. Energy is still Russia’s biggest source of money, and cutting this income weakens its ability to fund the war. However, Russia has proven resilient by redirecting oil exports to Asia, relying on smuggling networks, and depleting its National Wealth Fund to cover deficits.

To learn more about the 18th sanctions package, how Russia is adapting, what tools the EU has left, how well the EU is responding to Russian countermeasures, and how long Russia can hold out, visit the Sanctions Hub—a website that collects data and insights on sanctions against Russia and its economic retaliation (read more).

To learn more about Western sanctions and Russia’s countermeasures, visit the Sanctions Timeline. And for details on sanctions imposed on Russia and their effects, see the Evidence Base section of the sanctions portal.