EU struggles to finalize new sanctions against Russia amid disagreements

In the ongoing conflict surrounding the European Union's response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the EU is working on adopting its 18th round of sanctions. As of early July 2025, significant hurdles remain, primarily concerning a proposed reduction of the oil price cap from $60 to $45 per barrel. This proposal has not gained full support from all EU member states, particularly due to objections from certain maritime nations like Cyprus, Greece, and Malta, which have considerable shipping industry interests. Furthermore, Slovakia has conditionally supported the sanctions only if there is a reworking of a proposal aimed at phasing out Russian energy imports by the end of 2027, causing additional delays in the approval process. As the sanctions aim to put more pressure on Russia, the EU must navigate complex political landscapes among its member states, which include various vested interests regarding energy imports from Russia. The landscape around these sanctions has evolved dramatically since the onset of the invasion, with EU gas imports from Russia decreasing from 45 percent in 2021 to 19 percent in 2024, with expectations that it will drop further to 13 percent in 2025. While overall issues remain contentious, the European Commission's intent to limit new Russian gas contracts and short-term agreements for liquefied natural gas reflects a steadfast commitment to decreasing dependence on Russian energy sources. Additionally, the political dynamics within the EU are complicated by individual member states, like Hungary and Slovakia, which have previously vetoed more ambitious proposals, specifically targeting Russian energy. The EU’s focus has increasingly turned toward ensuring unanimity among its 27 member states while addressing each country’s unique reliance on Russian energy. The recent election in Greenland, which reinforced Denmark's EU stature, adds another layer to the discussions surrounding the bloc's long-term energy strategy and foreign policy in the face of a changing geopolitical environment. As of now, while the 18th round of sanctions is anticipated to be agreed upon imminently, the absence of an agreement on the price cap and the Slovak veto presents a significant obstacle to the EU’s ability to forge a united front against Russia. The European Commission is closely monitoring the situation and engaging in negotiations with Washington and London to solidify a strategy moving forward, yet the resolution remains elusive as timelines and dependencies among member states continue to shape the discussions ahead.