EU's foreign minister Kallas: We are doing the utmost to push the 20th Russia sanctions through

EU's foreign minister Kallas: We are doing the utmost to push the 20th Russia sanctions through

EU’s Kallas: Pushing for 20th Russia Sanctions Package Amid Internal Divisions

The European Union remains determined to finalize its 20th sanctions package against Russia ahead of the four-year anniversary of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2026, despite lingering disagreements among member states. High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas reiterated the bloc's resolve, stating that sanctions "are severely hurting Russia's economy" and must be expanded to limit Moscow's war-funding capabilities according to her statement.

A key point of contention is a proposed full ban on EU maritime services for Russian oil tankers, which would effectively end the G7's $44.10-per-barrel price cap on Russian crude. While the European Commission argues this measure would disrupt Russia's energy revenues and curb its "shadow fleet" of illicit tankers, countries like Greece and Malta oppose it, citing risks to their maritime industries and fears of shifting trade to non-EU nations as reported. Diplomats suggest consensus could emerge if G7 allies, including the U.S., align with the ban, though Washington has yet to commit according to diplomatic sources.

The package also includes proposals to expand sanctions on Russia's shadow fleet, add technical restrictions on liquefied natural gas (LNG) tankers and icebreakers, and activate the Anti-Circumvention Tool to block EU exports of dual-use goods to countries like Kyrgyzstan, suspected of facilitating Russian procurement as detailed. Kallas emphasized that the EU's geographic proximity to Russian oil trade gives it leverage to act unilaterally if needed, though broader G7 coordination remains preferable according to her remarks.

Hungary and Slovakia have raised general reservations about the package, echoing past patterns of resistance. Meanwhile, the EU's €90 billion loan to Ukraine—recently approved by the European Parliament—remains a critical financial pillar, with Kallas stressing the need for urgent spending on defense and energy infrastructure as stated.

With foreign ministers set to reconvene on 23–25 February, the EU faces a narrow window to bridge differences. Kallas acknowledged the urgency, stating, "We must reach the point where the costs of war for Russia outweigh the benefits" according to her press conference. The outcome will test the bloc's unity as it seeks to balance economic pragmatism with strategic pressure on Moscow.