Under the proposed measures, the EU would ban a wide range of services that support Russia’s oil shipments, including shipping, insurance, financing, brokering, and technical assistance. The move goes significantly further than previous sanctions packages, which targeted specific entities or imposed price caps but allowed some service provisions to continue.

European officials say the plan is designed to close loopholes that have enabled Russia to sustain oil exports despite existing restrictions. Crude oil sales remain a central pillar of Russia’s economy and a major funding source for its military operations.

The proposal will require approval from all 27 EU member states, a process that could face resistance from countries concerned about energy market stability and global oil prices. However, Brussels argues that tighter enforcement is necessary to maintain pressure on the Kremlin and demonstrate continued European unity in support of Ukraine.

If adopted, the sanctions would represent one of the most aggressive economic measures taken by the EU since the start of the war, potentially reshaping global energy flows and intensifying economic strain on Russia.