The European Union is racing to approve its 21st package of sanctions against Russia, but Greece has unexpectedly thrown a wrench into the works. Athens is blocking the measures over a provision that would ban the transit of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) through EU ports, a restriction due to come fully into force in 2027. EU ambassadors met in Brussels today to discuss the impasse, with diplomats describing the situation as delicate.
Greece argues that the LNG ban would disproportionately affect its energy security and economic interests, particularly given its role as a transit hub for gas flows to the Balkans and Central Europe. The country is demanding an exemption that would allow continued passage of Russian LNG through its ports, a position that has drawn criticism from other member states who see it as a loophole that could undermine the sanctions' effectiveness. For a deeper look at possible compromises, see our analysis on three paths to resolve Greece's blockade of EU Russia sanctions.
EU–US Trade Deal: One Year On
Meanwhile, the EU is also reflecting on the first anniversary of a controversial trade agreement struck between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and US President Donald Trump in Turnberry, Scotland. The deal, which aimed to lower tariffs and boost transatlantic commerce, has had mixed results. European exporters have seen some benefits, but the agreement has also exposed the bloc to the volatility of US trade policy.
Trump's recent decision to impose a 50% tariff on Canadian goods has sent shockwaves through global markets and raised questions about the reliability of the US as a trade partner. European officials are now reassessing their strategy, wary that similar measures could be applied to EU products. The Turnberry deal, once hailed as a breakthrough, now appears increasingly fragile as Washington pursues an aggressive protectionist agenda.
In the Middle East, tensions between the US and Iran continue to escalate, with potential implications for European energy supplies and security. The EU has been walking a tightrope, trying to maintain diplomatic channels with Tehran while supporting Washington's pressure campaign. Any disruption in the region could further complicate the bloc's efforts to diversify away from Russian energy.
Back in Brussels, the Greek blockade is not the only hurdle facing the sanctions package. Several member states have raised concerns about the economic impact of new restrictions, particularly on industries still recovering from the energy crisis. The EU has already imposed sweeping measures on Russian oil, coal, and banking, but LNG has remained a contentious area. For more on Athens' specific demands, read our report on Greece blocks EU sanctions on Russian LNG, demands transit exemption.
The outcome of today's ambassadors' meeting will determine whether the 21st package can be approved before the end of the month. If Greece holds firm, the EU may have to consider alternative mechanisms, such as a partial exemption or a delayed implementation timeline. The standoff highlights the growing difficulty of maintaining unity among 27 member states as the war in Ukraine enters its third year.
Beyond sanctions, the EU is also grappling with broader geopolitical challenges. NATO's public image varies widely across the continent, with strong support in Poland and Sweden but weaker backing in Greece and Turkey, as noted in a recent survey. This divergence could complicate future defense cooperation, especially as the alliance seeks to bolster its eastern flank.
As the EU navigates these internal and external pressures, the coming days will be critical. The Greek blockade is a test of whether the bloc can still act decisively in the face of Russian aggression, or whether national interests will increasingly fragment its response. For now, all eyes are on Brussels.
