The European Commission has proposed its 20th sanctions package against Russia, expanding restrictions on the energy sector (European Commission statement, 06/02/2026).
The measures include a full ban on maritime services for Russian crude oil tankers and the designation of 43 additional vessels (bringing the total to 640) linked to Russia's shadow fleet. They also prohibit maintenance and other services for LNG tankers and icebreakers, aiming to curb gas export projects by blocking access to European ports.
Russia's oil and gas fiscal revenues fell 24% in 2025 versus the prior year, the lowest since 2020, widening its budget deficit, with January figures at a war-time low amid 16% interest rates and persistent high inflation, according to the statement
EU member states must now approve the package for it to take effect.