A critical decision from the European Union regarding Russia: It also includes those who support the Kremlin.

The European Union countries have agreed on the 15th sanctions package targeting Russia's shadow fleet.

EU PRESIDENCY ANNOUNCED

In a post shared on the official social media account of Hungary, the EU Presidency, it was stated, "The ambassadors of EU countries have reached an agreement on the 15th sanctions package in response to Russia's aggression towards Ukraine." The post noted that the new package adds more individuals and entities to the existing sanctions list, emphasizing that organizations in Russia and third countries that indirectly contribute to Russia's military and technological development by circumventing export restrictions are also being targeted.

ACTIVITIES OF SHIPS BELONGING TO THIRD COUNTRIES WILL BE RESTRICTED

The post indicated that the new sanctions would also restrict the activities of ships belonging to third countries operating to support Russia. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated in her related post, "The EU and G7 partners are determined to continue applying pressure on the Kremlin. I welcome the agreement on our 15th sanctions package, which specifically targets Russia's shadow fleet."

"WE MUST CONTINUE STRONG PRESSURE ON RUSSIA"

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas also stated, "We must continue strong pressure on Russia. It is good to see the acceptance of the 15th sanctions package." It is claimed that Russia has established a secret shadow fleet consisting of unsuitable and old tankers to secretly transport oil and goods in response to Western sanctions.

14 SANCTIONS PACKAGES HAVE BEEN IMPLEMENTED SO FAR

So far, the EU has implemented 14 sanctions packages against Russia due to the war. In this context, a wide range of restrictions has been imposed on Russia, including trade, finance, energy (including oil and coal), industry, technology, transportation, dual-use and luxury goods, as well as gold and diamonds. The ban on the shipment of crude oil and certain petroleum products from Russia to the EU, the removal of some Russian banks from the international payment system SWIFT, and the suspension of the activities of numerous media organizations are also among the sanctions. The EU's sanctions list includes more than 2,300 individuals and entities.