EU's 19th Sanction Package Targets Russian Oil Links in China

The European Union plans to introduce its 19th set of sanctions against Russia, targeting four companies within China's oil industry. These firms are accused of bypassing Western restrictions. However, Slovakia's concerns on other issues have delayed the adoption of the package, which requires unanimous agreement from EU member states.

The European Union is poised to expand its sanctions against Russia, introducing a 19th package that spotlights Chinese companies allegedly aiding in circumventing Western restrictions. EU diplomatic sources have revealed that four entities tied to China's oil sector, including two refineries and a trading firm, are featured in the list.

While member states have finalized the package's text, it still awaits adoption. Slovakia's objections on unrelated matters are currently hindering the unanimous agreement required for these sanctions to pass.

As the EU seeks to tighten its economic measures against Russia, the inclusion of Chinese entities marks a significant development, underlying the global complexities of enforcing such international policies.

(With inputs from agencies.)