EU adopts 19th sanctions package against Russia, including LNG import ban

EU countries on Thursday formally adopted a 19th package of sanctions against Russia that includes a ban on Russian liquefied natural gas imports, said the Danish presidency of the EU Council.

The LNG import ban will be implemented in two phases, with short-term contracts ending after six months and long-term contracts ceasing from Jan. 1, 2027.

The new measures also impose additional travel restrictions on Russian diplomats and designate 117 more vessels from Russia's shadow fleet, mostly tankers, bringing the total to 558, the Danish presidency said.