EU Approves 18th Sanctions Package Against Russia
The Spin
Pro-Europe narrative
The EU's new sanctions package strikes directly at Russia's war financing. Lowering the oil price cap per barrel and now targeting 400+ shadow fleet vessels cuts Moscow's revenues, while banning Russian banks and restricting dual-use technology shows European resolve. Despite initial resistance, this unified response demonstrates that collective action is an effective means of countering aggression.
Pro-Russia narrative
The EU's next sanctions package is doomed to fail. Despite years of pressure, Russia remains the world's fourth-largest economy, widening its lead over Japan. New oil caps and banking restrictions mirror failed attempts that prompted Moscow workarounds. European unity comes at a cost to the energy security of member states, as seen in Slovakia's case.
