The European Union agrees to a new package of sanctions against Russia.

 

The European Union

The European Union agrees to a new package of sanctions against Russia.

The Danish rotating presidency of the European Union said on Wednesday that EU member states have agreed on the 19th package of sanctions against Russia over its war in Ukraine, including a ban on imports of Russian liquefied natural gas.

The Danish rotating EU presidency added : "We are pleased to announce that we have just been notified by the remaining Member State that it has now lifted its reservation regarding the 19th package of sanctions."

She continued, "Accordingly, we have initiated written procedures to obtain the Council's approval. If no objections are received, the package will be approved tomorrow (Thursday) by 8:00 AM."

Slovakia was the last country to hold reservations about the package after EU countries agreed to the final text last week.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has asked the European Commission for assurances on rising energy prices and aligning climate goals with the needs of automakers and heavy industry.

A Slovak diplomat said his country's demands were met through new clauses added to the final statement of the EU leaders' summit.

The new package includes new travel restrictions for Russian diplomats, as well as the inclusion of 117 additional vessels from Russia's " shadow fleet ," most of which are oil tankers, bringing the total number of vessels to 558.