The European Union has approved its 18th sanctions package against Russia, slashing the oil price cap to $47.6 per barrel.
The move is aimed at cutting deep into Moscow’s energy revenue as the war in Ukraine continues.
After weeks of negotiations, Slovakia dropped its opposition, allowing the package to pass.
The new measures include a ban on financial transactions linked to the Nord Stream pipelines, restrictions on Russia’s shadow shipping fleet, sanctions on select Russian and Chinese banks, and tighter controls on dual-use technology.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called it one of the strongest sanctions packages yet.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the bloc is striking at the heart of Russia’s war machine.
Ukraine welcomed the decision, saying the pressure must remain high as Russian attacks intensify.
