“The package adds more persons and entities to the already existing sanctions list, and targets entities in Russia and in third countries other than Russia that indirectly contribute to Russia’s military and technological enhancement through the circumvention of export restrictions,” the Hungarian Council presidency said in a statement.
The deal means the package can be approved when EU foreign ministers gather next Monday. Still, the new sanctions are just a preview of bigger fights to come next year. On Tuesday, 10 EU countries issued a joint letter — seen by POLITICO — calling for tough new restrictions on Russian natural gas, aluminum and nuclear fuel as part of a bid to drain the Kremlin’s war chest.
Linguistic compromise
The 15th sanctions package was delayed last week after Latvia and Lithuania used their veto powers, arguing the EU should end a clause that lets businesses continue operating in Russia.
The provision, first introduced in December 2022, has already been extended three times, which critics say has given companies sufficient time to divest. However, countries including Germany, France and Italy were reluctant to reopen the discussions.
Latvia and Lithuania dropped their objections after negotiators agreed to add non-binding language advising EU companies to leave Russia, according to five officials familiar with the talks, speaking anonymously to describe the closed-door negotiations.
According to a document seen by POLITICO, the new text reads: “EU operators should consider winding down businesses in Russia and/or not to start new businesses there.”
