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EU Just Unveiled Its 19th Sanctions Package Against Russia—Here’s What’s Inside
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![Photo of Vlad Litnarovych]( "Photo of Vlad Litnarovych")
The European Commission has rolled out its 19th package of sanctions against Russia, targeting everything from Moscow’s shadow fleet to cryptocurrency platforms and major energy players, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen disclosing its key points on September 19.
Among the new measures are restrictions on 118 vessels linked to Russia’s shadow fleet, a sweeping ban on all transactions with Rosneft and Gazpromneft, and fresh penalties on Russian and foreign banks accused of helping Moscow bypass existing restrictions.
Russia is showing the full extent of its contempt for diplomacy and international law.
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) September 19, 2025
So we're increasing the pressure.
With our 19th package of sanctions covering energy, financial services and trade restrictions ↓ https://t.co/uW7HuZp3br
“We are tightening the fight against circumvention. As evasion tactics evolve, our sanctions will adapt to stay ahead,” Ursula von der Leyen said.
“For the first time, our restrictive measures will hit crypto platforms and ban transactions involving cryptocurrencies. We are also blacklisting foreign banks tied to Russian alternative payment systems. Transactions with companies in special economic zones are also restricted.”
The package includes direct export bans on goods and technologies with battlefield applications, including drone-related systems.
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“We are also adding 45 companies in Russia and third countries that directly or indirectly support the Russian military-industrial complex. In a war that depends on innovation, cutting Russia off from critical technologies is vital — especially when it comes to drones,” von der Leyen added.
Brussels is also moving to block imports of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) into EU markets while lowering the oil price cap to $47.60 per barrel.
With this package, more than 560 vessels are now blacklisted by the EU. Refineries, energy traders, and petrochemical firms in third countries—including China—are also being hit with sanctions.
Earlier, the Australian government announced new measures against Russia’s war economy, lowering the price cap on Russian oil exports from $60 to $47.60 per barrel and imposing targeted sanctions on an additional 95 “shadow fleet” vessels.
