The European Union is lining up its next 13th sanctions package against Russia, with potential limits on Russian aluminum shipments and liquefied natural gas. Reuters reports this move, signaling a broad effort to tighten economic pressure while monitoring how EU members will respond to new curbs.
Experts expect the package to be agreed in the second half of February, but EU diplomats caution that unanimous backing among all member states is becoming harder to secure. The range of options that can win full approval appears to be narrowing as countries weigh economic risks and political considerations.
Poland and the Baltic states are pushing for tougher enforcement on sanctions circumvention and for further restrictions on the aviation sector. One concrete proposal involves broadening the list of dual-use products that could be redirected toward drone production, a move aimed at cutting off capabilities that could be repurposed for military use.
Nevertheless, several EU members argue that the core set of sanctions already covers essential materials. They contend that the next steps should focus on expanding the sanctions lists to include more enterprises and individuals, while tightening monitoring to prevent evasion and illicit trading channels.
The previous 12th package faced notable obstacles, particularly regarding bans on diamonds and liquefied gas. While supporters keep weighing additional restrictions, the outcomes remain uncertain as member states balance strategic aims with market realities.
Earlier in the year, Germany moved to approve a broad set of sanctions against Russian entities, signaling a strong political stance within Europe. This aligns with a wider effort across the bloc to curb Russia’s economic footprint and signal solidarity to partners in North America and beyond.
Russia, for its part, has historically ranked among the EU’s top five grain suppliers, a factor that underscores the potential trade-offs and ripple effects of extended sanctions. The evolving policy landscape presents ongoing implications for global markets, including North American buyers and traders who rely on stable supply chains and price clarity during already volatile times.