Macron Eyes Another Sanctions Blowout Against Russia
When French President Emmanuel Macron announced that the EU was gearing up for a fresh wave of sanctions, it was clear the playbook was changing. “We’ve already rolled out a new package against Russia,” he told reporters, “and the next one is coming. We don’t know exactly how it will land yet, but the stakes are high.”
Why the Pause?
- Russia has been shrewdly sidestepping previous sanctions.
- The Kremlin has found allies that supply new weapons.
- Shadow‑fleet ships—those slick, unregistered vessels—keep churning out oil and raking in billions.
Swiss Moves: The 14‑Person and 41‑Entity Freeze
On Tuesday, Switzerland tightened its grip, freezing assets of 14 individuals and 41 companies. The directive also bans these people from entering or passing through Swiss territory.
The newly sanctioned target list includes:
- Russian and foreign firms running the shadow fleet.
- Traders handling Russian crude oil.
- Suppliers supporting Russia’s military contractors—some based in third countries.
EU’s 18th Sanctions Package on the Horizon
The European Union is on the cusp of releasing its eighteenth sanctions burst. The Swiss government is backing this move by embedding its own listings on behalf of the EU, ensuring a unified front.
New Restrictions on Shadow Fleet Ships
Authorities announced that 105 additional vessels from abroad will face bans on buying and selling activities. These ships are part of Putin’s covert fleet, designed to dodge the global price cap on Russian oil.
Price Cap Revisited
In line with EU directives, Switzerland has lowered the price ceiling on Russian crude to $47.60 a barrel. This tightening aims to curb Russia’s hidden profits while tightening the economic net.
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