EU Sanctions Envoy Calls for 'Maximum Pressure' on China and India to Halt Russian Energy Purchases

EU Intensifies Push to Curb Russian Energy Revenue

Brussels – The European Union is escalating its efforts to curtail Russia's economic revenue, with its sanctions envoy, David O'Sullivan, calling for 'maximum pressure' on China and India to cease their purchases of Russian energy. Speaking at an event in Brussels on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, O'Sullivan emphasized that this move is critical to further impact Moscow's ability to finance its ongoing conflict in Ukraine, particularly amidst a global market characterized by low oil prices.

Targeting Key Buyers and Enablers

O'Sullivan highlighted that the current environment, with global markets 'flooded' with crude and 'key indicators' of Moscow's war economy 'flashing red,' presents a prime opportunity to intensify pressure. Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, China and India have emerged as significant importers of Russian oil, stepping in as European nations reduced their reliance. Russia has reportedly earned over $1.2 trillion from fossil fuel exports since February 2022, with China being the largest buyer, followed by India.

The EU's strategy extends beyond direct appeals to nations. O'Sullivan indicated that the bloc would continue to target 'enablers' of Russian oil sales, including third-country ports and refineries. As an example of past success, he cited the EU's decision to sanction Nayara Energy, a Russia-owned Indian refinery, which discouraged third countries from purchasing Russian energy. Furthermore, new EU measures, effective this month, will prohibit the import of refined products containing any Russian crude, a move expected to disrupt existing trade flows from countries like India, Turkey, and China.

Broader Sanctions Landscape and Economic Impact

The call for increased pressure comes as the EU continues to implement a comprehensive sanctions regime against Russia. The EU has already banned the import of seaborne crude oil and refined petroleum products from Russia, which in 2021 accounted for approximately half of Russia's total oil exports to the EU, valued at €71 billion. Price caps, agreed upon with the G7+Price Cap Coalition, have also been instrumental in reducing Russia's oil revenues, with current caps set at $47.6 per barrel for seaborne crude oil.

Recent data suggests that sanctions are having an effect. Russian oil and gas revenues reportedly fell by 24% in November-December 2025 compared to the previous year. The costs associated with shipping Russian oil have also surged, with freight rates to India increasing by 49% and to China by 36%, while insurance for vessels in the Black Sea has risen by 200%. India's Russian energy imports saw a notable decline in December, falling to €2.3 billion from €3.3 billion in November, signaling a potential cooling in trade.

In related developments, Sweden and Finland have proposed a stringent new EU sanctions package, advocating for a comprehensive ban on ships carrying Russian oil, gas, or coal to EU ports, and prohibiting insurance and port repair services for these vessels. Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump has also urged the EU to impose tariffs of up to 100% on goods from China and India as a means to pressure Russia, though the EU has indicated it is not yet ready to directly sanction third countries.