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EU Targets Russia's Shadow Fleet with New Sanctions

5/19/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The EU has taken a bold step, approving new sanctions aimed at crippling Russia's "shadow fleet" of oil tankers that dodge restrictions. This 14th sanctions package seeks to choke off funding for Russia's war in Ukraine, while also setting a goal to eliminate Russian gas imports by 2027, despite pushback from Hungary and Slovakia.

History

Historical Context

The EU's new sanctions against Russia's oil "shadow fleet" reflect ongoing tensions that began with Ukraine's 2013 pivot toward the EU, which Russia opposed. This led to trade wars and ultimately Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014. The sanctions aim to undermine Russia's war funding in Ukraine, echoing previous economic measures taken during the Cold War to counter Soviet influence.

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Story summary

The EU has taken a bold step, approving new sanctions aimed at crippling Russia's "shadow fleet" of oil tankers that dodge restrictions. This 14th sanctions package seeks to choke off funding for Russia's war in Ukraine, while also setting a goal to eliminate Russian gas imports by 2027, despite pushback from Hungary and Slovakia.

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