**European Commission Proposes New Sanctions Against Russia**
The European Commission has announced a new package of sanctions against Russia, aimed at targeting Moscow’s energy revenues and military industry. The proposal was made by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Tuesday.
According to the plan, transactions with Russia’s Nord Stream gas pipelines will be banned, as well as banks that try to circumvent existing sanctions. Additionally, the Group of Seven nations (G7) price cap on Russian crude oil is being lowered from $60 a barrel to $45 a barrel. The proposal also includes measures to target vessels and oil trading companies that make up Russia’s “shadow fleet”.
**Targeting Russia’s Energy Sector**
The new package of sanctions is seen as an attempt to weaken Russia’s energy sector, which has been a key source of revenue for the country since its invasion of Ukraine began. By banning transactions with Nord Stream gas pipelines and lowering the price cap on Russian crude oil, the EU hopes to reduce Moscow’s ability to earn money from oil exports.
**Analysis**
The proposal is likely to be debated by EU countries this week, with a final decision expected soon. The new sanctions are part of a broader effort by Western nations to pressure Russia into ending its invasion of Ukraine. While it remains to be seen whether the measures will have a significant impact on Russia’s economy, they demonstrate the EU’s commitment to supporting Ukraine and holding Russia accountable for its actions.
**Context**
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has been ongoing since 2014, with tensions escalating significantly in recent months. The EU’s sanctions against Russia are part of a broader effort by Western nations to isolate Moscow and punish it for its actions. Other countries have also imposed their own set of sanctions on Russia, including the United States.
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