The European Union is reportedly exploring the use of secondary sanctions for the first time against third countries that may be assisting Russia in circumventing existing restrictions, Bloomberg reported, citing sources familiar with the discussions.
EU foreign ministers are scheduled to meet in Copenhagen later this week, where they are expected to discuss the potential activation of a so-called “anti-circumvention tool”.
Adopted in 2023, this mechanism has remained unused until now but would allow the EU to restrict exports, supplies, or transfers of certain goods to nations believed to be aiding Moscow in evading sanctions.
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Sources indicate that officials are particularly concerned about loopholes that could undermine the impact of the EU’s current sanctions regime, including re-routing of critical goods and materials through third-party countries.
The move would mark a significant step in the bloc’s efforts to ensure sanctions effectiveness and deter countries from indirectly supporting Russia’s economy or military efforts.
While no formal decisions have been made yet, analysts say the discussions signal the EU’s intent to tighten enforcement and potentially influence international partners to comply more strictly with sanctions.
Bloomberg noted that the talks are also part of ongoing efforts to align the EU’s approach with the United States and other Western partners, who have increasingly pressured allies to close gaps in sanctions enforcement.
Previously, it was reported that Germany’s cabinet on Wednesday approved measures to strengthen the Bundeswehr, citing high tensions with Russia as the driving force. Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Russia “is—and will remain for a long time—the greatest threat to freedom, peace and stability in Europe” and stressed Germany must maintain NATO’s largest conventional army on the continent.
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