**EU Imposes New Sanctions on Russia and China**
The European Union (EU) has adopted its 15th package of sanctions against Russia, targeting the country‘s shadow fleet of tankers and the military-industrial complex. The new listings include 54 people and 30 entities responsible for actions that undermine or threaten Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
The EU’s chief diplomat, Kaja Kallas, said the sanctions are part of a response to weaken Russia’s war machine and those enabling this war, including Chinese companies. The package also targets shipping companies helping Russia sell crude oil, which has been filling Moscow’s coffers during the full-scale war.
**Targeting Russian Oil Trade**
The EU banned 52 vessels transporting Russian oil above $60 per barrel from accessing EU ports and services. This move aims to prevent Russia from circumventing the price cap by using older, uninsured tankers.
**Chinese Actors Targeted**
For the first time, the EU imposed full-blown sanctions on Chinese actors supplying drone components and microelectronic components to Russia. These sanctions include a travel ban and asset freeze.
**North Korean Officials Sanctioned**
The EU also sanctioned two senior North Korean officials for their role in sending over 10,000 troops to aid Russia’s war efforts. North Korean soldiers have been involved in ground assaults in Russia’s Kursk Oblast and seen combat with Ukraine.
**Ukraine’s Air Defense Efforts**
Ukrainian air defenses shot down 27 of the 49 drones launched by Russia overnight, according to the Ukrainian Air Force. The country’s air defense efforts have also successfully countered Russian electronic warfare countermeasures.
**Vladimir Putin Uninvited from G20 Summit**
Russian President Vladimir Putin will not be invited to the next G20 summit due to a pending arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC).