EU Stalls on 21st Russia Sanctions Package, Nears Deal on 250 New Listings

European Union member states have not yet reached agreement on a comprehensive 21st package of sanctions against Russia, but may decide on Monday to add 250 individuals and entities to the EU sanctions list, according to EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas.

Speaking before a meeting of EU Foreign Affairs Ministers in Brussels, Ms. Kallas said, 'We are hoping that we get 250 listings agreed, this is the biggest number of listings we have done so far.'

'When it comes to the 21st package, there are still some open questions,' she added, indicating ongoing deliberations among member states.

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys expressed concern over the lack of progress on key measures. He said EU countries had yet to decide on a proposed ban on maritime services and stricter restrictions on Russian liquefied natural gas. 'So I'm looking to see whether we are serious enough. We cannot put economic interests above security interests, that is a very dangerous trend,' Mr. Budrys told reporters.

The 21st sanctions package continues the EU's policy of imposing restrictive measures on Russia in response to its invasion of Ukraine. Since 2022, the EU has adopted multiple rounds of sanctions targeting sectors including energy, finance, and technology, as well as individuals and entities deemed responsible for supporting the war.

Disagreements among member states often delay the adoption of sanctions packages, as some countries seek to protect their economic interests. The proposed maritime services ban would affect shipping and insurance services related to Russian oil and gas exports, while tighter LNG restrictions aim to reduce Europe's reliance on Russian energy.

Diplomats in Brussels indicated that a decision on the 250 new listings could be reached as early as Monday, but the broader package remains under negotiation.