With the publication of the latest package of Russian restrictive measures and communications, the EU has made clear its intention to continue reinforcing measures to reduce Russia’s capabilities to wage war against Ukraine and diminish Russia’s industrial capabilities. With this in mind, the 15th package includes a series of measures ranging from the vetting of new entities and individuals to vessels originating in third countries or maritime transport services.
Considering the situation in Russia, the EU is extending the deadline for businesses considering finalizing their divestments or wind-down operations in Russia. National authorities will still be able to authorize transactions that facilitate wind-down operations in Russia until December 31, 2025.
The new regulations also focus on preventing the circumvention of measures via third countries and impose tighter export restrictions on dual-use goods and technologies. The EU has identified 32 entities (set out in Annex IV to Decision 2014/512/CFSP) that are supporting Russia’s military and industrial complex. As a result, the list also incorporates entities from Russia, China, Serbia, Iran, India, and the United Arab Emirates that have been effectively involved in circumventing trade restrictions.
As the EU remains committed to further limiting Russia’s ability to wage war, including through additional sanctions, it is likely that new packages will be published in the future. For more details, please refer to the Council of the EU’s press release.