EU Nears Deal on 18th Russia Sanctions Amid Energy Disputes

The European Union is preparing to adopt its 18th package of sanctions against Russia, aiming to increase pressure on the Kremlin to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine. The package targets Russian banks, companies, and the shadow tanker fleet used to bypass existing restrictions, with involvement from Dutch experts in sanctioning vessels. However, Hungary and Slovakia have expressed opposition, particularly concerning the proposed ban on Russian energy imports by 2027, using this stance as leverage for concessions and demanding protections for their economies against rising energy costs and transit fee caps. Slovakia has indicated conditional support for the sanctions package if economic safeguards are ensured, while Czechia supports swift adoption and has contributed measures to curb sanctions evasion. The lack of consensus has delayed formal approval, with expectations that the EU summit this week will address these concerns and potentially unblock the package. US cooperation remains uncertain, as the Biden administration's support for lowering the oil price cap has been inconsistent, complicating EU efforts to maintain a unified front.