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European Union adopts new sanctions package against Russia

Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

23.10.2025 | 09:47

Today, the European Union approved its 19th sanctions package, aimed at increasing pressure on Russia and hindering the financing of its war machine. A central measure introduces a ban on the purchase, import, or transfer within the EU of liquefied natural gas (LNG) originating from or exported via Russia, effective from 1 January 2027. The package also expands the ban on acyclic hydrocarbons by removing exemptions — including for isobutane, which Estonia has already sanctioned at the national level.

According to Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna, the new sanctions package demonstrates that Europe remains resolute. "The European Union is deliberately and consistently raising the cost of aggression for Russia and continues its efforts to prevent the circumvention of sanctions."

"With these sanctions, we are significantly reducing the revenues Russia earns from energy exports and thereby hindering the funding of its war machine," said Minister Tsahkna, adding that ending dependence on Russian energy is in the EU's strategic interest, as Russia has a track record of using energy exports as a weapon.

The provision of tourism services in Russia has been banned to reduce Russian revenues and to discourage unnecessary travel to the country, particularly in light of the increased risk of arbitrary detention for EU citizens.

The package also prohibits participation in, establishment of joint ventures with, financing of, or entering into new contracts with companies operating in Russia's special economic and innovation zones.

More than 117 vessels have been added to the EU's sanctions list, all of which are now banned from entering EU ports or receiving services. In total, the EU has now sanctioned over 560 vessels, primarily those involved in transporting Russian oil.

In the financial sector, a transaction ban has been imposed on five Russian banks, and restrictions have been introduced on the provision of crypto-asset services to Russian nationals.

In the area of trade, 45 entities have been added to the list of military end-users and sanctions evaders, including several companies from third countries that facilitate shadow fleet operations or supply Russia's defence industry. Additional sanctions have been imposed on goods and technologies used in Russia's military sector, including rare metals, salt, cement, and rubber products. Further export bans have been introduced on goods that enhance Russia's industrial capacity, such as salt, sulphur, graphite, metal ores, rubber products, and ceramic materials used in laboratories and construction.

Russian diplomats and consular staff accredited to an EU member state will now be required to notify authorities if they intend to travel to or transit through another member state. In addition, each member state may impose a requirement to obtain prior authorisation in addition to notification.

The sanctions list has been expanded to include 63 new entries (21 individuals and 42 entities), including companies and international partners supporting Russia's military industry and war machine, who help circumvent sanctions and generate revenue for the Kremlin. The list also includes individuals involved in the deportation of Ukrainian children and the dissemination of disinformation.

"Russia must understand that there is no place on the international stage for a state that flagrantly violates international law and attacks sovereign nations," said Tsahkna. "We will not stop until Russia is fully held accountable, has withdrawn from Ukraine, and has compensated for the destruction it has caused. This is not just a message — it is a promise."

Tsahkna confirmed that work on the next, 20th sanctions package is already under way. "We will not settle for half-measures. Each new package reinforces our message: Ukraine is not alone, and Russia will not go unpunished." The 20th package must include measures targeting Russia's largest energy companies and focus on third countries that assist Russia in circumventing sanctions.

Measures against Belarus have also been tightened.

All sanctions will be published in the Official Journal of the European Union.