**EU Imposes 18th Round of Sanctions on Russia**
The European Union (EU) has agreed to impose its strongest sanctions package yet against Russia, according to Kaja Kallas, the bloc’s top diplomat. This move comes as a response to Russia’s ongoing aggression in Ukraine.
On July 18, Kallas announced that the EU had approved the 18th package of sanctions on Russia. The decision follows a breakthrough in Slovakia, which had previously blocked the proposal six times due to concerns over the phase-out of Russian gas. With Slovakia now willing to back the package, the path was cleared for its approval.
**Key Components of the Sanctions Package**
The new package includes several significant measures aimed at further pressuring Russia. These include:
* A lower price cap on Russian oil, set at $47.6 per barrel. This move aims to reduce Russia’s ability to sell oil and generate revenue.
* Sanctions against 105 vessels from Russia’s “shadow fleet” and their enablers in the Russian banking system.
* A ban on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines running under the Baltic Sea. These pipelines have been a source of concern for many EU countries, as they facilitate Russia’s ability to export gas to Europe.
**Targeting Russia’s Military Industry**
The EU is also taking steps to target Russia’s military industry more directly. As Kallas stated, “We are putting more pressure on Russia’s military industry, Chinese banks that enable sanctions evasion, and blocking tech exports used in drones.” This move aims to disrupt Russia’s ability to supply its military with the resources it needs.
**First-Time Sanctions**
The new package also includes several first-time measures. The EU is now sanctioning a flag registry and Rosneft’s largest refinery in India. Additionally, the bloc is targeting individuals who are “indoctrinating Ukrainian children.”
**Commentary**
Martin Fornusek, a news editor at the Kyiv Independent, comments on the significance of this move: “The EU’s decision to impose its strongest sanctions package yet against Russia demonstrates a clear commitment to supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. As the conflict continues, it is essential for the international community to maintain pressure on Russia and hold it accountable for its actions.”
**Next Steps**
As the situation develops, the impact of these sanctions will be crucial in shaping Russia’s response to the EU’s measures. With this new package now approved, it remains to be seen how Russia will react.
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