EU discusses complete ban on maritime services for Russia’s shadow fleet, says Kallas

The head of European diplomacy said this in an interview with Ukrinform.

Kallas noted that the war in the Middle East has complicated the situation in the European Union, as a global oil shortage has emerged.

“That is why there are some member states who are hesitant [regarding a complete Russian oil ban] also because it is their prices are rising. But I think we need to move on,” EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas stated.

In this context, she reported that the EU is discussing a complete ban on maritime services for the shadow fleet.

“This definitely would have an effect because I think 45% of the total oil production of Russia goes via the Baltic Sea,” Kallas noted.

As reported, the European Union plans to impose a complete ban on Russian oil imports, including pipeline oil, no later than the end of 2027, to finally eliminate energy dependence.

In late February, Reuters, citing a draft document and EU officials, reported that the European Commission would submit a legislative proposal for a permanent ban on Russian oil imports on April 15, three days after Hungary's parliamentary elections.

However, on March 24, Reuters reported that the European Commission had postponed the submission of a legislative initiative on a permanent ban on Russian oil imports, which had previously been scheduled for April 15. The EU explained that the document had not been canceled, but its publication had been postponed due to the current geopolitical situation.