The European Union is finalizing its 21st sanctions package against Russia, yet according to Euronews, the document is significantly weaker than the initial proposals drafted by the European Commission. Internal disagreements and lobbying from member states benefiting from trade ties with Russia have led to the dilution of several key measures.
The proposal to restrict visas for former Russian military personnel, initially championed by Estonia and Lithuania, faced heavy opposition from France, Italy, and Greece. These nations successfully lobbied to narrow the scope from a general ban to only those with ‘active participation’ in military operations. This ambiguity remains a significant loophole, especially concerning, given that visa issuance to Russian citizens increased by 10.2% in 2025 compared to 2024.
Energy policy also saw major concessions. The cap on Russian oil prices will likely be frozen at $44 per barrel. Greece, prioritizing its maritime shipping sector, secured the right to continue transporting Russian Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) to non-EU nations, effectively undermining future plans to block Russian energy exports. Furthermore, under pressure from Bulgaria, the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church, Kirill, has been removed from the sanctions list.
Trade restrictions have suffered similar setbacks. Specific exemptions were added for fish imports—haddock for Germany, pollock for Poland, and cod for Portugal—demonstrating how national economic interests continue to fragment the EU’s unified front. While the EU has agreed to ban the sale of LNG tankers to Russia, the broader impact of this package remains limited.
For Ukraine, this highlights the ongoing challenge of maintaining high-level pressure on the aggressor. As Kyiv continues to coordinate with European and American partners, the focus remains on the financial sector and the disruption of Russia’s ‘shadow fleet.’ Effective sanctions require a strict, non-negotiable approach, as every compromise provides the Kremlin with additional resources to sustain its war machine. The ongoing diplomatic efforts underline that only a synchronized and robust sanctions policy, paired with continued military support, can effectively compel Russia to cease its violations of international law. Maintaining this trajectory is essential for the long-term security architecture of Europe.