EU prepares new sanctions against Russia: restrictions on aluminum and disconnection of banks from SWIFT

The European Union is developing the 16th package of sanctions against Russia, which provides for a phased cessation of imports of Russian aluminum, new financial restrictions and expanded control over oil transportation. One of the key measures will be the disconnection of additional Russian banks from the SWIFT system. More than 70 vessels used to transport Russian oil may also fall under sanctions.

According to *Bloomberg*, the EU proposes a gradual rejection of Russian aluminum, which will allow member states to adapt to the new conditions. During the first year after the adoption of sanctions, European states will be able to import up to 275 thousand tons of this metal under quotas, after which it is planned to introduce a complete ban. National governments will monitor the implementation of the sanctions in cooperation with the European Commission.

According to the UN *Comtrade*, in the first 11 months of 2024, EU countries imported approximately 320,000 tonnes of unprocessed aluminium from Russia, accounting for around 6% of the EU’s total imports of the metal. The loss of this supply could affect the steel industry in some European countries, as governments are working to find alternative sources of raw materials.

Despite general support for the sanctions, some member states have previously expressed concerns about a potential shortage of aluminium and the challenges of replacing Russian supplies. However, the gradual transition envisaged by the new package should reduce the negative impact on the European economy.

Along with the aluminium sanctions, the new package also includes the disconnection of additional Russian banks from SWIFT. This will further complicate international financial transactions for Russian companies and increase economic pressure on Moscow. The restrictions will also affect vessels used to transport Russian oil, which should reduce bypass schemes for supplying energy resources.

The new sanctions are aimed at further weakening the Russian economy and limiting its financial and industrial capabilities. Final adoption of the 16th package is expected after the details are agreed upon by EU member states.