The European Union is planning to introduce a new sanctions package aimed at companies from China, Russia and other countries involved in the development and supply of attack drones for use in the war against Ukraine. This was reported by Bloomberg.
The new package of restrictions provides for:
- Asset freezes and travel bans for more than 50 individuals and about 30 legal entities.
- Sanctions against a Chinese company that violated EU trade restrictions and a Hong Kong-based firm that supplied Russia with banned microelectronic components.
- Restrictions on North Korean officials who support Moscow’s military activities.
Separately, access to ports and services for 45 Russian oil tankers is to be restricted. This is aimed at reducing Russia’s revenues from energy exports.
Drones as a strategic challenge
One of the main targets of the sanctions is companies that supply key components for the production of attack drones. These drones have been used by Russia to attack Ukraine’s civilian and critical infrastructure, which has drawn international condemnation.
Support from the G7
The G7 foreign ministers meeting in Italy have supported the EU’s initiative to impose new restrictions on companies and states that contribute to Russia’s aggression.
However, the final decision on the sanctions package must be approved by all 27 EU member states. It is expected that the discussion process may cause debate, in particular due to the economic interests of individual EU states in cooperation with China.
