In Brussels, discussions are intensifying about a new sanctions package against Russia that could be introduced this summer. According to Politico, citing unnamed European diplomats, the focus may be on the Kremlin's 'shadow fleet,' which includes old tankers used for the global transportation of Russian oil products.
The EU hopes that by tightening sanctions against this fleet, it can significantly reduce Russia's energy export revenues. This could prompt Vladimir Putin to back away from his maximalist demands in negotiations with Ukraine. A senior EU official stated that the Russian economy is currently the weakest it has been since the start of the war.
Additionally, the Russian newspaper reports that the sanctions could also target banks, defense industry companies, and firms involved in the export of Ukrainian grain from occupied territories. The EU also plans to revive previous sanctions initiatives that were blocked by the Hungarian government, including measures against the Russian Orthodox Church.
These factors could present a favorable moment for the EU to intensify support for Ukraine and exert additional pressure on the Kremlin.
