EU weighs “very serious” 18th sanctions package against Russia

The European Union is considering a new and significantly tougher package of sanctions against Russia, as discussions among EU foreign and defence ministers continue in Brussels.

The talks are taking place alongside the final approval of the 17th sanctions package, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

The EU’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, indicated that the bloc remains committed to increasing pressure on Moscow should it fail to agree to a ceasefire in its ongoing war against Ukraine.

Thus, EU defence and foreign ministers are convening in Brussels to finalise a fresh package of sanctions against Russia, aiming to clamp down on its shadow fleet and hybrid warfare capabilities. The meeting is also expected to mark the declaration of the EU’s rapid deployment force, a 5,000-strong unit now deemed operational. In parallel, ministers are set to expand support missions for Ukraine, focusing on the reconstruction of infrastructure and strengthening its defence industry once a ceasefire is in place.

The push for new measures comes as Russian President Vladimir Putin signalled potential openness to a truce with Ukraine following a call with Donald Trump. While the US president stopped short of pressing the matter, the conversation suggests a possible shift in Moscow’s posture amid ongoing battlefield stalemates.

Ties between the UK and the EU are also showing signs of improvement. In a significant post-Brexit reset, London has agreed to grant fishing access to EU fleets until 2038. In return, Brussels will reduce food-related border checks and grant the UK access to EU defence and carbon trading markets, signalling a pragmatic thaw in relations.

At the same time, EU member states have given preliminary backing to a €150 billion defence fund designed to bolster infrastructure and arms production. The move comes in response to diminished US security support and growing recognition of the need for European strategic autonomy.

By Aghakazim Guliyev