Ukraine-Russia News
LAST UPDATE: September 16, 2025
EU’s 19th sanctions package against Russia delayed, EU officials say
The European Commission has delayed its 19th sanctions package against Russia — originally expected to include measures targeting Russian banks, its “shadow fleet,” and entities evading sanctions. The delay comes amid U.S. demands for faster phase‑out of Russian energy imports and internal EU concerns over energy disruptions.
Insight
The postponement indicates tension between geopolitical pressure (especially from the U.S.) and pragmatic energy security concerns within the EU; balancing strong sanctions with avoiding economic fallout is likely to remain a contentious issue.
Japan will carefully consider measures to pressure Russia, finance minister says
Japan’s Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato said Japan will carefully evaluate measures to pressure Russia, coordinating with other G7 members; noted WTO rules limit what can be done especially regarding tariffs on Russian oil. (Reuters)
Insight
Japan is balancing its commitments to allies with legal/trade constraints; its approach underscores how global pressure on Russia must navigate multilateral rules and domestic economic interests.
