EU reveals 18th sanctions package against Moscow
RT15 hrs
EU Approves 18th Russia Sanctions Package After Slovakia Lifts Veto
Above: A view from the oil company Tatneft in Tatarstan, Russia, on June 4, 2023. Image copyright: Alexander Manzyuk/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
The Spin
Anti-Russia narrative
These sanctions represent Europe's strongest response yet to Putin's aggression, targeting the heart of Russia's war machine through energy revenues and banking restrictions. The dynamic oil price cap will significantly reduce Moscow's ability to fund its military operations while the shadow fleet measures close critical loopholes. Europe stands united in supporting Ukraine despite economic costs to member states.
Pro-Russia narrative
The sanctions demonstrate European weakness and internal division, with Slovakia successfully extracting concessions by threatening to block the package. Russia has already adapted to previous sanctions and built immunity to Western economic pressure. These measures will ultimately harm European economies more than Russia's, proving sanctions are a double-edged weapon.