EU Fails to Approve 15th Sanctions Package Against Russia
The European Union has not approved its latest sanctions package against Russia. The package, which was expected to be approved on December 6, included measures to restrict Russian oil imports and target the country’s “shadow fleet” of tankers.
Most EU countries banned Russian oil imports after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. However, some countries like Czechia, Slovakia, and Hungary were allowed to continue importing Russian oil products through exemptions. The new package would have extended these exemptions for a short period.
Two EU member states blocked the sanctions package due to disagreements over deadlines for European companies to withdraw investments from Russia. The issue will be revisited later.
The proposed package also aimed to restrict the operations of Russia’s shadow fleet, which has helped the country evade international sanctions and limit its oil revenues.
Russia’s War Efforts
Russia launched attacks on two Ukrainian cities, Zaporizhzhia and Kryvyi Rih, killing 11 people and injuring 33. The city of Kryvyi Rih was attacked twice in one day, with Russian forces using the Shahed-type drones to launch the attack.
Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko asked Russia to deploy missile systems in Belarus, which has been accused of aiding Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine.
Romania Annuls Presidential Election Results
The Romanian Constitutional Court annulled the results of the first round of the presidential election due to concerns over the vote being influenced by external forces.
Ukraine Reports High Casualties
Russia has suffered high casualties in November, with an estimated 45,690 soldiers lost during the month. The number includes 1,660 casualties just over the past day.
Russia Sells Off Gold Reserves
To address its budget shortfall, Russia has begun selling off gold reserves from the National Welfare Fund.