Greece blocks EU's 21st package of anti-Russian sanctions due to threats to business - media

BRUSSELS. July 16 (Interfax) - Greece has opposed the adoption of the European Union's new 21st anti-Russian sanctions package, which includes a ban on the transportation of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) to third countries, citing its business interests, The Financial Times reported.

"Greece is opposing a new round of EU sanctions against Russian gas to protect Dynagas, the shipping company," the newspaper said.

The newspaper said, citing its sources, that Greece's representative to the EU told his counterparts on Wednesday that the planned sanctions against Russian LNG would "ruin" Dynagas.

The Financial Times said, with reference to the Equasis maritime data website, that Dynagas operates 27 gas tankers. These include a third of the fleet of Arc7 tankers, which are built robustly to handle the icy Arctic waters close to Yamal LNG's plant, the newspaper said.

The Greek representative said that Dynagas will be unable to use these vessels in other areas and will have to sell them to non-Western countries. Such vessels cost around $300 million.

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas said on Wednesday that EU countries have yet to reach an agreement on the 21st package of anti-Russian sanctions, but they are likely to do it soon.

"I also regret that we do not have an agreement on the 21st package. Although, I must say that we are quite close," Kallas said at a press conference after an EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting.

Western media reported that the talks were postponed until July 23.