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Hungary and Slovakia lift vetoes, EU approves new sanctions against Russia
2026-04-23 16:29:30 / BOTA
The European Union has agreed on a new package of sanctions against Russia, after Hungary and Slovakia lifted their vetoes following the resolution of a dispute with Ukraine over the Druzhba oil pipeline.
However, the most important element of the package – a complete ban on maritime services for tankers carrying Russian oil – has been put on hold for the time being, pending coordination with the G7. This postponement is expected to significantly mitigate the economic impact of the new sanctions.
The proposed measure aims to ban European companies from providing services such as insurance, shipping or port access to ships carrying Russian crude. If fully implemented, it would replace the current price cap mechanism set by the G7, which allows services only under certain conditions.
The initiative for a complete ban has been strongly supported by Sweden and Finland, which argue that this measure would increase costs for the Russian energy sector, limit the use of forged documents and facilitate control for European companies.
The proposal was included by the European Commission in the 20th sanctions package, presented in early February.
However, some member states such as Greece and Malta have expressed reservations, warning that such a ban without international coordination could harm their economies, increase competition from countries such as China and India, and strengthen Russia's so-called "shadow fleet" - ships used to evade Western sanctions.
Despite the agreement on the new package, the final decision on the strongest measure remains open, reflecting divisions within the EU and the need for broader international coordination.
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