Diplomats reported that the European Union ambassadors had agreed on a 15th set of sanctions against Russia for its war in Ukraine. The package targets its shadow tanker fleet as well as Chinese companies making drones to be used by Moscow.

The Hungarian Presidency said on X, that sanctions will target vessels from countries who support Russia's war against Ukraine. They also added more people and entities to the list.

After Monday's approval by the foreign ministers, sanctions will be adopted.

Diplomats informed that the package includes a six-month extension for the Czech Republic's import of Russian oil products mainly coming through Slovakia.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, said: "I welcome our 15th package sanctions that target in particular Russia's Shadow Fleet".

The EU's foreign ministers are expected to adopt the sanctions package on Monday. It will be targeted at close to 30 entities and individuals, and 45 oil tankers.

The sanctions list currently includes 2,200 people and entities, who are banned from travel and have their assets frozen within the 27 member bloc. Reporting by Philip Blenkinsop and Julia Payne. Additional reporting by Charlotte Van Campenhout, Marek Strzelecki, Jan Lopatka, and Charlotte Van Campenhout. Editing by Keith Weir, Toir Chopra, and Keith Weir.

(source: Reuters)