On 15 June 2026, the European Union adopted a so-called “mini” sanctions package against Russia, following the European Commission’s announcement that it would now also impose sanctions on a “rolling” basis to increase their effectiveness.
This “mini” sanctions package is separate from the more comprehensive 21st EU sanctions package, which was presented on 9 June 2026, and is still under discussion between EU Member States. The measures in this “mini” sanctions package are designed to undermine Russia’s ability to finance and sustain the war against Ukraine. Below, we outline the key elements for your consideration.
The mini package is essentially limited to new designations under asset freeze measures and prohibitions to make assets available, but also introduced an important derogation allowing EU operators to wind down or phase out their relationships with Yangzhou Yangjie Electronic Technology Co., Ltd (“Yangjie”), a Chinese chip manufacturer and trader supplying the automotive and defence industries, designated under the 20th EU sanctions package against Russia on 23 April 2026.
Yangjie was placed on the EU-Russia Sanctions List on 23 April 2026 after their components were discovered in drones and ammunition used by Russian troops in Ukraine. To address supply chain disruption caused by the designation of Yangjie, the package introduces a new derogation, which enables national competent authorities to authorize transactions with Yangjie that are necessary for:
- terminating by 31 December 2026 operations, contracts or other agreements concluded with the sanctioned company before its designation on 23 April 2026, provided the transaction is completed by that date; or
- industry purchases of critical components manufactured by the sanctioned company, until 16 March 2027, to enable a transition to alternative suppliers.
Another important focus of these sanctions is reducing Russia’s energy income. The EU is targeting the “shadow fleet” of oil tankers that Russia uses to circumvent existing sanctions. By adding the companies and individuals involved in operating these vessels to Annex I to EU Regulation 269/2014 (“the EU-Russia Sanctions list”), the EU aims to restrict a significant source of Russian revenue.
Finally, the new sanctions also target individuals who have played a significant role in spreading propaganda both in- and outside of Russia, as well as those responsible for human rights violations. Looking ahead, the EU is currently working on implementing its 21st sanctions package. On 19 June 2026, The European Council called for the swift adoption of the 21st sanctions package.
For detailed information on the previous 19 packages of restrictive measures against Russia, please see: EU sanctions measures against Russia.
This publication is provided for your convenience and does not constitute legal advice.
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