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EU Envoys Reach Consensus on Imposing Ban on Russian Aluminum Imports in Updated Sanctions Package

On Wednesday, EU envoys reached an agreement on a 16th round of sanctions against Russia, which is set to include a ban on primary aluminum imports, sales restrictions on gaming consoles, and the identification of 73 shadow fleet vessels. The upcoming measures, set for adoption by EU foreign ministers on Monday, mark the third anniversary of Russia's actions.

According to Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the EU's actions aim to crack down further on circumvention efforts, specifically by targeting more vessels in Putin’s shadow fleet and implementing new import and export bans.

The proposed aluminum import ban is scheduled to be gradually implemented one year following the package's official adoption. Additionally, the sanctions list will grow with the inclusion of 48 individuals and 35 entities, entailing asset freezes and travel restrictions.

Recent developments in EU sanctions align with the U.S. administration's commitment to pursuing further actions toward ending the conflict in Ukraine. These efforts diverge from previous approaches that sought to isolate Russian President Vladimir Putin through U.S. ally cooperation.

Notably, the EU, alongside other Western powers, has heightened restrictions in recent months to limit Russia's oil exports, including measures targeting vessels and transactions with specific Russian ports and airports. The new sanctions aim to curb vessels, primarily tankers, used by Russia to bypass the price cap on oil sales or support military operations, such as transporting ammunition.

Moreover, the expanded criteria for EU sanctions will encompass owners, operators, captains, and individuals aiding the shadow fleet or military operations. Restrictions on sales of video game consoles, joysticks, flight simulators, and certain chemicals are also set to be implemented to prevent their potential military application, like controlling drones.

In addition, the ban extends to exporting chromium and certain chemicals, as well as service restrictions for oil and gas refineries.