EU sanctions Russia with 19th package targeting energy sector

The European Commission has unveiled its 19th package of restrictions against Russia, which requires unanimous approval from all 27 EU member states to take effect. Presented by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the package targets Russia’s energy, trade, and financial sectors, as well as third‑country buyers of Russian oil. A notable element is a full ban on Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports by January 2027.

To adopt the package, the EU must overcome potential opposition from member states that depend heavily on Russian crude, such as Hungary and Slovakia. These countries have previously delayed or threatened to veto sanctions because of their significant reliance on Russian energy supplies. In an effort to neutralise Hungary’s possible veto, the Commission is considering releasing more than half a billion euros in frozen funds. The money belongs to the €22 billion allocated to Hungary in 2022 and was frozen over rule‑of‑law concerns. Its release would be conditional on Hungary’s approval of the sanctions package.

This tactic is not unprecedented. Last year the EU unfroze over €10 billion after noting progress in Hungary’s judicial independence, and another tranche was released when the country made advances in gender equality. The new sanctions aim to phase out Russian oil and gas, including restrictions on third‑country buyers of Russian oil, as part of a broader strategy to reduce Europe’s reliance on Russian energy.

Both Hungary and Slovakia have voiced resistance to cutting Russian energy supplies, stressing the need for secure alternatives before reducing their dependence on Russian oil. Russia has consistently denounced the sanctions as illegal, arguing that they primarily harm the imposing countries. The effectiveness and implications of these measures will be closely monitored as the global community navigates the complexities of the ongoing conflict. Securing unanimous EU approval will be crucial for shaping Europe’s energy policy and its relationship with Russia.