The European Commission has officially published a statement announcing the preparation of the 20th sanctions package against Russia, which aims to unprecedentedly tighten pressure in the energy, financial, and trade sectors. Commissioner Ursula von der Leyen emphasized that the key measure of the new package will be the introduction of a complete ban on maritime shipments of Russian oil. To ensure this, an additional 43 vessels identified as part of the so-called "shadow fleet" are being added to the sanctions list. Furthermore, Brussels intends to activate a special instrument to prevent the circumvention of existing restrictions and calls on EU member states to immediately approve the proposed initiatives.

Russia's financial sector will face strict new barriers, including the addition of 20 more regional banks to blacklists and an outright ban on the use of the Central Bank of Russia's digital currency. The 20th package places particular emphasis on modern financial technologies: sanctions extend to cryptocurrencies, trading platforms, and companies that facilitate transactions with them. Financial institutions in third countries found to be facilitating the illegal trafficking of sanctioned goods will also be targeted. Trade restrictions will affect the import of metals, chemicals, and minerals that were previously exempt from bans, totaling over €570 million, while export controls on goods and services supplied to Russia will be significantly tightened.