EU adopts 18th sanctions package against Russia over Ukraine war

Saturday 19 July 2025 - 14:30

The European Union has adopted its 18th package of sanctions against Russia, intensifying pressure on Moscow as the war in Ukraine continues. One of the key measures includes lowering the export price cap on Russian crude oil, according to diplomatic sources in Brussels.

“We now have an agreement on a strong and effective 18th package of sanctions against Russia,” a senior EU diplomat stated following a meeting of the EU’s ambassadors.

The adoption had been held up by Slovakia, which had used its veto to push for guarantees regarding its gas supply, as the EU aims to completely phase out Russian gas imports by 2027. After securing these guarantees from the European Commission, Bratislava lifted its opposition, allowing the sanctions to proceed.

The revised package introduces a new oil price cap, reducing the allowable export price of Russian crude to just over $45 per barrel—15% below the average market price. The previous cap had been set at $60, a level increasingly viewed as too generous given current oil market conditions.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas hailed the decision, calling it “one of the toughest sanctions packages adopted so far.” The new pricing mechanism will adjust automatically, maintaining a 15% discount below market rates, making it more flexible and responsive than previous versions.

“The EU will keep up the pressure until Russia ends its war,” said Kallas. She emphasized that the sanctions are not only symbolic but have a real impact: the original $60 cap has already cut Russia’s oil revenues by 30%, a crucial funding source for its military operations.

Brussels hopes the United States, which has been hesitant to lower the cap further, will join the initiative. The original $60 threshold had been agreed upon within the G7, but transatlantic alignment has weakened in recent months.

By capping export prices, Western allies aim to limit Russia’s financial capacity to sustain its war effort while maintaining global market stability.