The European Union (EU) has announced a new round of sanctions against Russia, aiming to limit Moscow’s resources for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

On February 24, marking three years since the war began, the EU unveiled its 16th package of sanctions targeting Russian imports, oil exports, and technology supplies.

Key Measures in the Latest Sanctions

• Ban on Russian aluminum imports into the EU.

• Blacklisting of 74 vessels from Russia’s "shadow fleet", which is allegedly used to bypass restrictions on oil exports.

• Prohibition on selling gaming controllers to Russia, as they are repurposed for controlling military drones on the battlefield.

• Ban on broadcasting for eight Russian TV channels within the EU.

"This new sanctions package is not just about the shadow fleet," said EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas. "It also targets those who facilitate unsafe oil tankers, gaming controllers used to operate drones, banks that help evade sanctions, and media outlets spreading disinformation."

Targeting Russia’s Shadow Fleet

The shadow fleet refers to a network of tankers that obscure ownership details and deactivate Automatic Identification System (AIS) transponders, making it difficult for global monitors to track their movements. Experts believe these tactics allow Russia to evade sanctions, sell oil above the price cap, and obscure the actual price of Russian crude on the market.

Maintaining Pressure Amid U.S.-Russia Talks

The EU’s move comes as U.S. President Donald Trump explores negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war.

"There is no doubt about who started this war, who is paying the price, and who must be held accountable," Kallas stated. "We must ensure Ukraine is in the strongest possible position for any future negotiations. Sanctions create leverage."

Kallas also urged EU members to increase their support for Ukraine, emphasizing that "now, more than ever, Ukraine needs our backing."

She is set to visit Washington on February 25 to meet U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, where they will discuss EU-U.S. relations and ongoing negotiations between Washington and Moscow regarding the war.

"You can discuss anything you want with President Putin," she warned, "but if it involves Ukraine and Europe, then Ukraine and Europe must also agree to the terms."

EU Support for Ukraine

Several EU leaders and ministers will visit Kyiv on February 24 to demonstrate continued support for Ukraine. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer are traveling to Washington to meet with Trump.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that Ukraine will receive €3.5 billion ($3.68 billion) in aid from the EU in March. Additionally, Ukraine is set to benefit from the EU’s plans to expand European weapons production and defense capabilities.

(Sources: AFP, Reuters)

Hello Shuttle will strive to bring the latest updates. At the end of the day.

Are you looking for reliable airport and cruise port transfer services in Los Angeles?

We offer professional, safe, and punctual transportation from

Los Angeles Airport - LAX

Long Beach Airport - LGB

John Wayne Airport - SNA

San Pedro cruise port

Long Beach cruise port

Disneyland

and other destinations.

Let us make your journey stress-free and comfortable with our dedicated drivers and high-quality vehicles. Book now for the perfect travel experience at www.helloshuttle.com or call 944-800-5678!