In a press release published on May 20, 2025, the European Council adopted the 17th package of sanctions against Russia. According to the Council, the measures aim to “cut off Russia’s access to key military technology and curb Russia’s energy revenues that fuel its war of aggression against Ukraine.”

The EU has launched its “largest ever package targeting Putin’s shadow fleet,” doubling the number of vessels subject to port bans and service restrictions. The Council stated: “189 vessels originating from third countries were targeted today, bringing the total of designated vessels to 342. These vessels are part of Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’, responsible for transporting Russian oil while practicing irregular and high-risk shipping practices.” The sanctions include individual measures against shipping companies and insurers that support this fleet.

The package also includes new sanctions against Surgutneftegas, a major Russian oil producer. The EU also expanded its measures under the human rights, chemical weapons, and hybrid threats regimes.

Entities from Serbia, the United Arab Emirates, Türkiye, and Hong Kong have also been sanctioned for enabling the circumvention of EU export restrictions.

Read the full EU press release here: https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2025/05/20/russia-s-war-of-aggression-against-ukraine-eu-agrees-17th-package-of-sanctions/