EU finalizes 20th Russia sanctions package amid Hungary delay risk

The package requires approval at two upcoming Coreper II ambassador-level meetings.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas previously stated the new measures should be adopted by Feb. 24, 2026 — the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion — prompting diplomats to consider an additional session in the coming days.

The EU aims to strengthen enforcement in coordination with the United Kingdom, particularly by synchronizing actions against Russia’s shadow tanker fleet and banning maritime services to vessels transporting Russian oil and gas.

The bloc also seeks to close loopholes Russia exploits to evade restrictions. EU special envoy for sanctions David O’Sullivan is working with non-EU partners and is scheduled to visit Kyrgyzstan soon.

Hungary is holding up progress by insisting on removing certain Russian sports officials from the sanctions list, diplomats told Politico.

On Feb. 6, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen unveiled the 20th package, emphasizing measures against cryptocurrency trading platforms and companies to block circumvention channels.