**EU Plans to Unveil New Sanctions Against Russia on May 14**
The European Union (EU) is set to announce a new package of sanctions against Russia, just days after the UK imposed its largest ever sanctions package targeting Moscow’s shadow shipping fleet. According to an EU official who spoke to the Kyiv Independent on condition of anonymity, the 17th package of sanctions will be unveiled on May 14.
**A Long Line of Sanctions**
This latest move comes as part of a long line of measures taken by the EU against Russia since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The bloc has already announced 16 separate sanctions packages, targeting individuals, companies, and state institutions involved in supporting Russia’s war machine in Ukraine.
**Russia’s Shadow Fleet Under Scrutiny**
One of the key areas likely to be targeted by the new package is Russia’s shadow fleet, which has been linked to espionage and sabotage operations. The fleet has also been used to avoid Western sanctions and ship out Russian oil above the G7-imposed price cap. European countries have been working to disrupt these activities, with the UK’s latest sanctions package hitting 101 vessels.
**International Pressure on Russia**
The move comes as international pressure continues to mount on Russia over its actions in Ukraine. Last week, President Volodymyr Zelensky and leaders of the UK, France, Germany, and Poland agreed to impose additional sanctions against Russia if Moscow does not accept their proposal for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire.
**A Clear Message**
The EU’s new package is likely to be a clear message that the international community will not tolerate Russia’s aggression in Ukraine. The sanctions are designed to target those individuals and organizations involved in supporting Russia’s war effort, and to bring pressure on Moscow to end its hostilities.
In conclusion, the EU’s latest move is just one part of a broader effort to isolate Russia and bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine. As the situation continues to unfold, it will be interesting to see how Moscow responds to this latest escalation of sanctions.
