European Union ambassadors have reached a political agreement on the bloc’s 21st sanctions package against Russia, EU diplomats said on Thursday, moving the measures closer to formal adoption.
The package is expected to include a 12-month freeze on the Russian oil price cap, as well as a one-year exemption allowing the transfer of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) to third countries, according to two EU diplomats.
The agreement was reached after discussions among EU member states, with technical work on the sanctions package set to be completed before a written adoption procedure begins.
EU members show solidarity
One EU diplomat said member states had shown solidarity with Greece, adding that Greece was expected to demonstrate similar support for other countries in the future.
The diplomat did not provide further details on the issue.
Package moves toward adoption
Following the political agreement, officials will now finalize the technical elements of the sanctions package.
A written procedure for formal adoption is expected to be launched on Thursday afternoon, according to EU diplomats.
