EU 17th Sanctions Package Against Russia

EU 17th Sanctions Package Against Russia: Stronger Measures on Energy, Shipping and Sanctions Circumvention

On 20 May 2025, the Council of the European Union adopted the 17th package of sanctions against Russia. The package focuses on strengthening enforcement, limiting energy revenues and preventing sanctions circumvention through international logistics networks.  

Key measures

The most significant measure is the largest expansion of sanctions against Russia’s shadow fleet.

The EU added 189 additional vessels to its sanctions list, bringing the total number of sanctioned ships to 342. These vessels are subject to port access bans and restrictions on a broad range of maritime services provided by EU operators.  

The package also targets parts of the Russian energy sector, including one of the country’s major oil producers, with the aim of reducing energy-related revenues.  

Additionally, 17 individuals and 58 entities were added to the EU sanctions list, increasing the total number of designated persons and organisations to more than 2,400.  

Export restrictions were further expanded to cover technologies and components that could support military production, while enforcement against sanctions circumvention through third countries was strengthened.  

Impact on international trade

For customs brokers, freight forwarders and international traders, the new package increases the importance of:

* customer due diligence;
* vessel screening;
* supply chain verification;
* export control compliance;
* risk assessment of intermediaries operating in third countries.

These measures help companies reduce legal, financial and operational risks associated with international trade.  

Conclusion

The 17th sanctions package reflects the EU’s continued effort to improve the effectiveness of existing restrictions rather than simply expanding their scope. Businesses involved in international trade should regularly review compliance procedures, monitor regulatory updates and carefully assess business partners and transport routes.