European Union ambassadors failed to reach a consensus on the bloc’s 21st package of sanctions against Russia on Tuesday, according to a European source in Brussels.
The impasse centers on a compromise draft proposed by the European Commission that would soften restrictions on the transportation of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) to third countries using European tankers.
Member states remain divided on the extent to which European shipping interests should be shielded from secondary sanctions, preventing a final vote.
The failure to agree marks a significant delay in the EU’s ongoing effort to tighten economic pressure on Moscow.
European Commission foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas confirmed earlier in the week that member states had not yet reached an agreement, signaling that the diplomatic process is stalling.
The lack of consensus means the existing regulatory framework remains unchanged for now, but the prolonged uncertainty complicates planning for energy traders and logistics providers operating in the sector.