EU ambassadors endorse 16th sanctions package targeting Russia

Permanent representatives from the 27 EU member states have approved the 16th sanctions package against Russia in response to the ongoing war in Ukraine, according to a source within the delegation of one European country to the EU Council speaking to TASS.

"Yes, the permanent representatives agreed on new sanctions this morning," the diplomat confirmed.

This decision is set to be formally approved by the foreign ministers of the 27 EU countries on Monday, February 24. Following this approval, the package will be published in the EU Official Journal and come into effect. As planned by Brussels, the 16th sanctions package will be introduced on the third anniversary of the onset of the war in Ukraine.

Earlier, Reuters reported, citing European diplomats, that the EU will include a ban on the import of primary aluminum from Russia as part of the sanctions package. Additionally, 73 vessels, identified as part of the "shadow fleet," will be targeted by the sanctions.

G7 ties future sanctions on Russia to peace efforts in Ukraine

The foreign ministers of the Group of Seven (G7) announced on Saturday that any further sanctions against Russia will depend on its commitment to meaningful peace negotiations regarding Ukraine.

In a joint statement, the G7 members affirmed that "any new, additional sanctions after February should be linked to whether the Russian Federation enters into real, good-faith efforts to bring an enduring end to the war against Ukraine that provides Ukraine with long-term security and stability as a sovereign, independent country."

Reiterating their position, the G7 reaffirmed their "unwavering support for Ukraine in defending its freedom, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity."

European leaders have voiced concerns over potential US-Russia negotiations that might sideline Ukraine and its allies. Ukrainian President Zelensky reaffirmed that Kiev will not accept an agreement brokered without its direct involvement, stating, "Nothing can be discussed on Ukraine without Ukraine."

EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas also reinforced the necessity of European participation, warning against a resolution that excludes regional stakeholders.

Read more: Zelensky rejects US deal for 50% of Ukraine's mineral rights: Reports