Ukraine sets expectations for EU’s new Russia sanctions: Tanker fleet in focus
Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Andriy Yermak (photo: Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
The new European Union sanctions package against Russia is set to include restrictions on the tanker fleet and several key sectors of the Russian economy, states Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Andriy Yermak.
He summarized the results of an online meeting with advisors to the leaders of Northern Europe, the Baltic countries, the Presidents of the European Council and the European Commission, as well as the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. The talks took place on June 10.
“We discussed further support for Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. I emphasized the critical need to strengthen our air defense amid intensified attacks from Russia,” Yermak reported.
He told the interlocutors about the Ukrainian delegation’s visit to Washington in early June. According to Yermak, during the meetings with senior US administration officials, they discussed the importance of sustained support for Ukraine.
“Special attention was given to sanctions pressure. It’s crucial for Ukraine that the EU’s 18th sanctions package includes restrictions on Russia’s banking and energy sectors, its tanker fleet, and provides for secondary sanctions,” Yermak outlined Kyiv’s expectations.
Additionally, the parties discussed preparations for upcoming key international events, including the G7 summit in Canada, the NATO summit in The Hague, and the EU summit.
“Joint coordination is the key to the strength of our democratic front,” Yermak concluded.
EU sanctions against Russia
On May 20, the European Union approved the 17th package of sanctions against Russia. The restrictions targeted 189 vessels from third countries that are part of Russia’s shadow fleet, responsible for transporting Russian oil.
According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the EU has also confirmed that preparations for the 18th sanctions package against Russia are underway. European Council President António Costa confirmed that restrictions will be imposed if Russia refuses to cease fire in Ukraine or fails to take steps toward a peaceful resolution of the war.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said he hopes a new sanctions package will be introduced by the end of June.
At the same time, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico threatened to block any European sanctions that harm the national interests of his country.
