The European Union has introduced its 19th round of sanctions targeting entities involved in bypassing restrictions on Russian energy exports, according to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The measures specifically aim to penalize refiners, oil traders, and petrochemical firms in third countries, including China, for allegedly facilitating Moscow’s access to global markets despite existing penalties.

The proposed framework, disclosed this week, requires unanimous approval from EU member states before implementation. It expands the scope of earlier sanctions by directly addressing foreign energy companies accused of circumventing trade barriers. Von der Leyen emphasized that the move is part of a broader effort to isolate Russia’s energy sector, citing concerns over financial loopholes and illicit transactions.

Russia has significantly increased oil exports to China and India since 2022, with both nations resisting Western pressure to reduce their reliance on Russian crude. Chinese and Indian officials have defended their energy strategies, framing them as necessary for economic stability. Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously criticized European policies as “colonial” and warned against imposing punitive measures on developing nations.

The package includes a ban on Russian liquefied natural gas imports into EU markets, the addition of 118 vessels to a list of ships linked to Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet,” and comprehensive transaction restrictions on major energy firms Rosneft and Gazpromneft. Additionally, the measures extend to foreign banks connected to Russian alternative payment systems and entities operating in special economic zones. For the first time, cryptocurrency platforms will also face regulatory scrutiny under the sanctions regime.

Von der Leyen announced parallel efforts to establish a financial mechanism for Ukraine, leveraging frozen Russian assets. “The proceeds from these assets could fund reparations loans for Ukraine without touching the assets themselves,” she stated, highlighting the EU’s commitment to supporting Kyiv amid ongoing conflict.

The latest measures come as the EU intensifies pressure on Moscow following reported missile strikes on Ukrainian cities and alleged drone incursions into Poland and Romania. Russian officials have dismissed these claims as “baseless.” Von der Leyen reiterated that the 19th package underscores the bloc’s resolve to enforce energy, financial, and trade restrictions against Russia.