European Union foreign ministers have reached a preliminary accord on the bloc’s 18th sanctions package against Russia since 2022. The measures focus on restricting Russian liquefied natural gas exports and curbing the operations of Moscow’s so-called shadow fleet of tankers.

Once formally adopted, expected within days, the restrictions will tighten pressure on Russia’s energy revenues, a critical funding source for its economy. Officials say the new rules will also complicate logistics for vessels suspected of evading existing price caps on Russian crude.

The agreement underscores the EU’s continued commitment to coordinated economic measures alongside diplomatic efforts to address the ongoing conflict. Analysts note that while previous rounds have slowed Russia’s energy earnings, loopholes remain, prompting this latest push to close gaps in enforcement.