The new package of sanctions was agreed upon by the 27 EU nations just hours before their deadline. It appeared that a deal had already been reached, but late in the negotiations Poland threw in concerns over a ban on Russian rubber. This came as a shook to many due to Poland being one of the EU’s lead “Russia Hawks.” All 27 countries must agree in order for sanctions to be implemented, this can create a very long and tedious negotiation process.
This package is aimed at targeting individuals and organizations that support Russia’s defense and technology industries. The new sanctions also cuts off multiple Russian banks from the SWIFT banking system and targets what the EU calls “Russian Propagandist.” Individuals and entities involved with the delivery of Iranian drones were also targeted as well as tighter export restrictions on dual-use goods.
The President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said on Twitter, “Together, the EU member states have imposed the most forceful and far-reaching sanctions ever to help Ukraine win the war.” As well as, “The EU stands united with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. We will keep supporting Ukraine, for as long as it takes.”
