Fact Check: "The European Commission has proposed a new round of penalties targeting Moscow's energy revenues, banks, and military industry."
What We Know
The European Commission has indeed proposed a new sanctions package against Russia, marking the 18th set of sanctions in response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This package specifically targets key sectors of the Russian economy, including energy, banking, and military industries. According to Reuters, the proposal includes a full transaction ban on 22 additional Russian banks, alongside restrictions aimed at curbing Moscow's energy revenues. The sanctions are part of a broader strategy to pressure Russia, particularly as its military actions continue in Ukraine.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced these measures on June 10, 2025, emphasizing that the EU aims to make its sanctions more effective. The package includes a ban on transactions related to the Nord Stream pipelines and proposes a reduction in the oil price cap from $60 to $45 per barrel, as one-third of Russia's government revenue is derived from oil exports (Kyiv Independent). Additionally, the EU plans to impose restrictions on exports of critical technologies and industrial goods to Russia (European Interest).
Analysis
The claim that the European Commission has proposed new penalties targeting Russia's energy revenues, banks, and military industry is supported by multiple credible sources. The announcement from the European Commission is well-documented and has been reported by reputable news organizations, including Reuters and the Kyiv Independent. Both sources confirm the inclusion of significant measures aimed at the energy sector and banking institutions, which are crucial for Russia's economy.
Furthermore, the reliability of these sources is high. Reuters is known for its rigorous journalistic standards and adherence to the Thomson Reuters Trust Principles, which ensure accuracy and impartiality. The Kyiv Independent, while focused on Ukraine-related news, has gained credibility for its reporting on the conflict and its implications for Europe.
The proposed sanctions are a continuation of the EU's strategy to respond to Russia's military aggression in Ukraine. The measures reflect a coordinated effort among EU member states to tighten economic pressure on Russia, particularly in sectors that are vital for funding military operations. The inclusion of additional banks and restrictions on energy transactions indicates a comprehensive approach to limit Russia's financial capabilities (Euronews).
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that the European Commission has proposed a new round of penalties targeting Moscow's energy revenues, banks, and military industry is accurate. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms that the EU's latest sanctions package includes significant restrictions aimed at these sectors, reflecting ongoing efforts to apply economic pressure on Russia in response to its actions in Ukraine.
Sources
- EU's new Russia sanctions to target energy sector and banks
- EU unveils 18th package of sanctions against Russia, ...
- EU unveils 18th sanctions package on Russia, targets oil ...
- EU sanctions Russia's energy sector and banks
- EU proposes fresh sanctions on Russia's oil, banks, Nord ...
- EU's new Russia sanctions to target energy sector and banks
- Russian rouble slightly down vs US Dollar, ignoring EU ...
- EU readies ban on Russian gas imports by end of 2027
