The European Union intends to introduce, for the first time, sanctions against seaports in third countries for operations related to Russian oil. According to the agency Reuters, which cites a draft document of the European Commission, the 20th package of sanctions against Russia could target the Kulevi port in Georgia and the Karimun port in Indonesia.
The package also provides for the expansion of the “blacklist” of oil tankers involved in the transport of Russian oil by 43 positions. In addition, sanctions are planned against several banks in Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Laos, while restrictions could be lifted for two banks in China. According to Reuters, the Russian company Bashneft and eight Russian refineries could also be included in the list.
Previously, Reuters reported that Brussels, together with the countries of the G7, is discussing replacing the current “price cap” mechanism with a total embargo on maritime services for the transport of Russian oil, including insurance and chartering. The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, confirmed that the new package of sanctions will include such an embargo.