Ursula von der Leyen Commends EU's 16th Sanctions Package Against Russia

Synopsis

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised the EU's decision to impose the 16th sanctions package on Russia. The measures aim to target Putin's shadow fleet and include export bans, reinforcing EU's commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Key Takeaways

EU's 16th sanctions package targets Russia.
Increased measures against circumvention.
Focus on aluminum imports and oil tankers.
EU's commitment to Ukraine totals €135 billion.
Emphasis on a peaceful resolution respecting Ukraine's sovereignty.

Brussels, Feb 19 (NationPress) European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday expressed her approval of the decision made by the European Union (EU) ambassadors to implement a 16th package of sanctions against Russia, coinciding with the upcoming third anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

"I applaud the consensus on our 16th sanctions package. The EU is intensifying its efforts to prevent circumvention by targeting additional vessels in Putin’s shadow fleet and introducing new import and export bans. We are dedicated to maintaining pressure on the Kremlin," Von der Leyen posted on X.

The EU had previously adopted its 15th package of economic and individual restrictive measures against Russia on December 16, 2024, which included a substantial set of 84 listings comprising 54 individuals and 30 entities accountable for actions that "undermine or threaten the territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence of Ukraine".

The latest package, as reported by Ukrainian media on Wednesday, is aimed at aluminum imports and the shadow fleet of Russian oil tankers.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested on Tuesday that sanctions relief might be a component of normalizing relations between the US and Russia.

"To bring an end to any conflict, concessions must be made by all sides. We're not going to predetermine what those are. We're not negotiating this today or in a press conference. Other parties have sanctions; the European Union will need to be involved at some point as they too have imposed sanctions," Rubio stated after the US and Russian delegations concluded their meetings in Riyadh.

On Tuesday, Von der Leyen met with General Keith Kellogg, US Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia, before he proceeded to Kyiv for discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

"The President highlighted the EU's vital contribution to Ukraine's financial stability and defense, with a total commitment of €135 billion (approximately $145 billion)—more than any other ally. This includes $52 billion in military aid, equivalent to US contributions," an EU statement released after the meeting noted.

The President of the European Commission also discussed Europe's intentions to enhance defense production and expenditures, strengthening both European and Ukrainian military capabilities, while reiterating that the EU is fulfilling its responsibility of military support to Ukraine and is "prepared" to do even more.

"Reaffirming the EU's dedication to achieving a fair and enduring peace, the President reiterated that any resolution must honor Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, backed by robust security guarantees. She also expressed the EU's readiness to collaborate with the US to cease the violence and secure the just and lasting peace that Ukraine and its citizens rightfully deserve," the statement added.