EU Approves 11th Package of Anti-Russian Sanctions, Considers Ban on Diamond exports

The European Union has approved its 11th package of anti-Russian sanctions, according to a release from the European Commission. The approval by the Council (EU) of these sanctions was welcomed by the Commission. One of the main features of this package is the ability to impose restrictions on the export of “sensitive” dual-use goods and technologies to third countries, which are then allegedly forwarded to Russia. Additionally, the EU will publish an expanded list of items that cannot be transported in transit through Russian territory.

According to RIA Novosti, citing Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Piotr Wawrzyk, the EU has already begun working on the next package of sanctions. Wawrzyk stated that the republic aims to eliminate four elements that provide significant financial resources for Russia within these new restrictions. The most challenging aspect, according to Wawrzyk, is the ban on the export of diamonds from Russia to the EU.

Wawrzyk acknowledged that implementing this ban may face opposition from the Benelux countries, where diamonds are primarily traded. However, he expressed optimism that a solution acceptable to all parties could be reached, citing the possibility of convincing countries like Italy and Greece to close their ports. The deputy minister noted that it is difficult to predict when the 12th package of sanctions will be adopted.

These developments highlight the ongoing tensions between the EU and Russia, with the EU taking further measures to impose sanctions on Russia. The specific details of the 11th package of sanctions and the potential impact on both Russia and the EU remain to be seen.

How will the ban on exporting diamonds from Russia to the EU impact both Russia and the diamond trade in countries like Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg

The European Union has just given the green light to its 11th set of sanctions against Russia, a move that has been praised by the European Commission. This latest package includes measures that allow for restrictions on the export of “sensitive” dual-use goods and technologies, which are believed to be ultimately sent to Russia. The EU will also release an extended list of items that are prohibited from being transported through Russian territory.

According to Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Piotr Wawrzyk, cited by RIA Novosti, the EU is already working on its next round of sanctions. Wawrzyk mentioned that the goal is to target four elements that provide significant financial resources to Russia. However, the most challenging aspect of these new restrictions is the ban on exporting diamonds from Russia to the EU.

Wawrzyk acknowledged that there may be opposition from countries like Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg, where the diamond trade thrives. But he expressed optimism about finding a solution that satisfies all parties involved, including persuading countries such as Italy and Greece to close their ports. It is uncertain when the 12th package of sanctions will be adopted, according to the deputy minister.

These latest developments underscore the ongoing tensions between the EU and Russia, with the EU ramping up its efforts to impose sanctions. The specific details of the 11th package and its potential impact on both Russia and the EU are yet to be revealed.