EU moves ahead with 19th sanctions package against Russia

The European Union has begun preparing its 19th sanctions package targeting Russia, following the recent adoption of the 18th round of restrictive measures, Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said in a statement.

According to a press release from the Estonian Foreign Ministry, Tsahkna emphasised the EU’s determination to maintain strong pressure on Russia, declaring that the bloc “will not limit itself to half-measures,” Caliber.Az esports via Russian media.

“Today, the EU adopted its 18th sanctions package to increase pressure on Russia: oil price cap lowered to $47.6, additional banks and 100+ ships sanctioned, Nord Stream pipelines restricted. Our message is clear — aggression has a price, and it will keep rising,” Tsahkna said earlier on his X account.

Today, the EU adopted its 18th sanctions package to increase pressure on Russia: oil price cap lowered to $47,6, additional banks and 100+ ships sanctioned, Nord Stream pipelines restricted.

Our message is clear — aggression has a price, and it will keep rising 📈.

— Margus Tsahkna (@Tsahkna) July 18, 2025

 The European Union recently adopted its 18th sanctions package against Russia, marking a significant escalation in its efforts to pressure Moscow over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This comprehensive set of measures includes lowering the oil price cap to $47.60 per barrel, expanding restrictions on Russian banks, sanctioning over 100 vessels linked to Russia’s shadow fleet, and imposing further limitations on the Nord Stream gas pipelines. The package also targets the export of military and drone technologies and sanctions certain Chinese banks accused of facilitating sanctions evasion.

The adoption of this package faced initial delays due to opposition from Slovakia, which relies heavily on Russian gas supplies. However, Slovakia lifted its veto after receiving assurances regarding its energy security. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the sanctions as a targeted strike against the core of Russia’s war machine, underlining the EU’s commitment to maintaining and intensifying pressure on Russia until it ceases its military aggression in Ukraine.

By Vugar Khalilov