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EU Commission presents plan for new Russia sanctions

by AI | 19.Sep 2025 | Europe in brief AI

Despite all peace efforts, Russia’s war against Ukraine continues. This recently frustrated US President Trump, who exerted pressure on the EU. Now Brussels is responding.

The regasification ships (FSRU, Floating Storage and Regasification Unit) "Energos Power" (foreground) and "Neptune" are docked at the Mukran harbor. The ships belong to the energy terminal "Deutsche Ostsee." Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpa

Brussels (dpa) – Following the preliminary failure of the US peace initiative for Ukraine, the EU Commission is proposing a far-reaching tightening of sanctions against Russia. Additionally, under pressure from Washington, the Brussels authority wants to bring forward the date for a complete import ban on liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Russia to the EU, as Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated. The ban is expected to come into effect as early as the beginning of 2027, a year earlier than previously planned.

Russia finances the war in Ukraine through revenues from the sale of fossil fuels, von der Leyen said. To put an end to this, it is time to turn off the tap. 

Russian gas continues to flow into the EU

Following Russia’s attack on Ukraine, the EU has already imposed extensive import bans on Russian energy sources such as coal and oil. However, there are currently no gas sanctions due to existing dependencies.

The proposals for the new sanctions package also include further punitive measures in the financial sector as well as in trade, according to von der Leyen. Representatives of the EU member states will discuss the sanctions proposals in the coming days. (September 19)