The European Union has delayed the release of its 19th round of economic measures targeting Russia, according to diplomatic sources. The decision follows intense demands from the Trump administration for stricter penalties against Moscow, met with opposition from Hungary and Slovakia. Initially planned for Wednesday, the proposed package—focused on curbing Russian oil exports and banking sector activities tied to the Ukraine conflict—has been indefinitely delayed, as reported by multiple EU officials.

The postponement coincides with Washington’s escalating efforts to force European nations to sever energy ties with Russia. U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly signaled willingness to escalate sanctions if European partners halted Russian oil purchases, while also pushing for steep tariffs on China and India, which have become major buyers of Russian crude since 2022. Moscow has rejected Western pressure, warning against a “colonial” approach toward global powers and accusing the West of seeking to penalize nations for their energy choices.

The EU’s broader goal of phasing out Russian fossil fuels by 2027 faces resistance from member states like Hungary and Slovakia, which argue such measures threaten national energy stability. Recent discussions have also centered on altering voting rules to bypass dissenting countries. Meanwhile, Russian officials dismissed Western sanctions as ineffective, claiming they have failed to cripple the economy and instead spurred domestic innovation.

The standoff highlights deepening divisions within European alliances as geopolitical tensions intensify.