European Union Approves New Sanctions Package Against Russia, Including Ban on LNG Imports

The Danish rotating presidency of the European Union announced on Wednesday that member states have officially approved the 19th package of sanctions against Russia over its war in Ukraine. The package includes a ban on Russian Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) imports.

The Danish presidency stated: "We are pleased to announce that we have just been notified by the remaining Member State that it has now lifted its reservation regarding the 19th sanctions package." It added that, consequently, the EU has started "written procedures for Council approval," noting that "if no objections are received, the package will be adopted tomorrow (Thursday) by 8 am."

Slovakia was the last country to reserve its position on the package after the other EU nations agreed to the final text last week. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico requested guarantees from the European Commission regarding rising energy prices and aligning climate goals with the needs of the automotive and heavy industries. Slovakia’s demands were met through new clauses added to the concluding statement of the EU leaders’ summit.

Key Provisions of the New Package

The new sanctions package stipulates:

• A ban on Russian LNG imports.

• Adding new restrictions on the travel of Russian diplomats.

• The listing of 117 more vessels belonging to Russia's "shadow fleet," mostly oil tankers, bringing the total sanctioned vessels to 558.