Sanctions against the shadow fleet: Tetiana Khutor explained what the new EU restrictions are all about

The European Union is preparing to adopt a 17th package of sanctions against Russia, which focuses on combating the so-called shadow fleet. This was announced on Suspilne TV by Tetiana Khutor, head of the Institute for Legislative Ideas.

According to her, the new package provides for restrictions on both companies and individuals involved in the activities of the shadow fleet - ships used to circumvent international sanctions. “This applies to everyone involved in this mechanism. It is an excellent package that can already be implemented,” the expert said.

Tetiana Khutor stressed that the adoption of the 17th package of sanctions is a politically important step. She also emphasized that the effectiveness of sanctions will increase significantly if the US, the UK, Norway, and other partners join them. "The best result is only possible with global coordination. Sanctions must be adopted jointly," she said.

Currently, the final decision on the package depends, in particular, on the position of Hungary, which has not opposed it but has a decisive vote in the process, as unanimity of all EU member states is required for adoption. Also, according to Khutor, Donald Trump's position on peace talks may influence the US decision to join the sanctions initiative.

Tetiana Khutor also drew attention to the lack of criminal liability in Ukraine for circumventing sanctions. According to her, a bill is already being considered in parliament that would criminalize such actions. “This is necessary to work effectively with international partners. We must not only facilitate but also investigate violations and seize assets ourselves,” she said.

For more details, see Tetiana Khutor's interview with Suspilne: