The Council of the European Union has approved its 14th package of economic and individual restrictive measures (sanctions) in response to Russia’s armed aggression against Ukraine. The decision was announced on 24 June by the EU Council’s press service.
EU states that these sanctions «are aimed at dealing a significant blow to the Putin regime and its supporters involved in illegal, unprovoked, and unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine».
Key provisions of the 14th package include:
- Ban on Transshipment of Russian LNG: The EU will prohibit the transshipment of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) within the EU for the purpose of onward transportation to other countries. This includes ship-to-ship operations and transshipment activities, affecting re-exports to third countries via EU territories. Import of Russian LNG directly to the EU is not affected.
- Restrictions on LNG Projects: New investments, as well as the provision of goods, technology, and services for completing Russian LNG projects like Arctic LNG 2 and Murmansk LNG, will be restricted. Import of Russian gas through EU terminals not connected to the natural gas system will also face limitations.
- Controls on Munitions and Military Know-How: Measures to prevent re-export of munitions found in Ukraine or essential for Russian military systems will require EU operators to implement due diligence mechanisms. Operators transferring industrial know-how for military production to third countries must include contractual clauses preventing its use for goods destined for Russia.
- Ban on Financial Messaging System (SPFS): The use of Russia’s Financial Messaging System (SPFS), designed by the Russian central bank to circumvent sanctions, will be prohibited within the EU. Transactions with entities using SPFS outside Russia are also banned.
- Prohibition on Transactions with Defence-Related Entities: EU operators are barred from engaging in transactions with non-EU credit and financial institutions and crypto asset providers that facilitate support to Russia’s defence industry base. This includes exporting, supplying, selling, transferring, or transporting dual-use goods, sensitive items, munitions, firearms, and ammunition to Russia.
These measures underscore the EU’s continued stance against Russian aggression and its commitment to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.