EU tightens sanctions on Russia, targeting drone production and "shadow fleet"

The European Union has implemented its 21st sanctions package against Russia, broadening its focus beyond individual companies to entire production chains for Harpia long-range drones and the Rasswiet satellite communication system. This new package also empowers member states to confiscate and sell cargo from Russian "shadow fleet" vessels that violate sanctions.

Previously, EU sanctions primarily targeted third-country suppliers of dual-use goods and technologies. However, this latest package introduces a more comprehensive approach by directly impacting the complete manufacturing and supply chains for specific Russian military systems. Over 30 entities involved in the production of Harpia drones and the Rasswiet system, Russia's answer to Starlink, are now subject to sanctions. Rasswiet, developed by the Russian space company Bureau 1440, aims to provide the Russian military with rapid internet access but currently lags behind Elon Musk's Starlink and is dependent on imported components.

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As we know, Russia will only agree to negotiate an end to the illegal war and the killing of civilians under pressure. These sanctions increase that pressure.

In addition to targeting drone production, the EU has established a mechanism for confiscating and selling Russian oil and grain from sanctioned "shadow fleet" vessels. This measure, along with a price cap of $44 per barrel on Russian oil, aims to reduce Kremlin revenue. The EU estimates these measures will cost Russia approximately $3.5 billion in lost income. The sanctions also prohibit EU companies from providing services, including insurance, to tankers selling oil above the specified price threshold.

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We have focused on one category of long-range drones – Harpias – and have effectively identified their entire production and supply chain. Today, we attack them with one blow, adding more than 30 targets to the list.