EU prepares largest sanctions package against the “shadow fleet” and Russian citizens
4.09.2026 - 11:14
The response to the attempted sabotage at Leipzig airport could be restrictions on tourist visas for Russians and additional sanctions against “shadow fleet” tankers.
The EU may expand sanctions against tankers carrying Russian oil in response to the attempted sabotage at a German airport. This is reported by Bloomberg, citing European officials.
In the coming weeks, representatives of EU countries will hold meetings to discuss possible proposals. Among them are restrictions on tourist visas for Russians, tightening restrictions on the movement of Russian diplomats and introducing additional sanctions against “shadow fleet” vessels.
These could be the first steps in the EU’s response to Russia’s attempted sabotage at Leipzig airport, which is used to transport military equipment to Ukraine.
Germany has already announced the closure of the Russian consulate in Bonn and a key Russian cultural center in Berlin, as well as increased border controls for Russian citizens. EU countries are also considering strengthening Ukraine’s air defenses.
In addition, the EU is working on plans to impose sanctions on 1,600 individuals and entities linked to Russia’s military actions. This could be the EU’s largest sanctions package to date.
EU forces also recently boarded a tanker linked to Russia’s shadow fleet.
