EU tightens sanctions against countries aiding Russia.

The EU is developing a new mechanism to punish countries that enable sanctions evasion against Russia, but concerns from countries such as Germany have led to the proposal being watered down. The latest version of the draft proposal sets out a more careful and step-by-step approach before targeting third countries, and the Commission would have to demonstrate that alternative measures have been ineffective before punishing them. Greece and Hungary are still holding out over Ukraine listing some of their companies as "war sponsors." EU countries hope to get a deal on the package done next week.