As part of the preparations for a new sanctions package, France and Germany propose that the European Union target Lukoil, a Russian oil company, and other external entities that facilitate the sale of Russian oil.

These measures are justified by the fact that sales of energy resources are essential for financing Russia's war effort. The proposals also include tougher sanctions against countries that help circumvent existing restrictions. The European Commission could present this sanctions package soon, following recent Russian attacks on Ukraine, which have intensified calls for additional actions against Moscow.